I May Have to Quit Substack

Unfortunately, I was made aware about two weeks ago of allegations that substack platforms multiple far-right extremists for profit.

Unlike the current administration and many Americans far and wide, I believe in the First Amendment, and separately, our right to express our opinions as free and autonomous beings. HOWEVER, I’ve always also taken the stance that when those ‘opinions’ begin to erode the basic human rights of others, they should be swiftly condemned. There is a difference between having an opinion and infringing on civil liberties.

As I watched this situation continue to unfold, it has become clear that Substack has sided with the bad guys.

In doing some research, it is revealed that Substack recruited and paid several extremists, who later shared Nazi sentiments, to boost Substack membership and engagement.

Substack, you may not know, takes a percentage of what each paid subscriber pays. I, as a creator on this platform, only make a percentage (around 85-90% I think?). This initially was okay with me because in the writer agreement it explicitly states that these fees are to help keep the platform running. However, it has come to light that a lot of this money has been used to further recruit and platform voices that would attempt to oppress minorities.

In good conscience, I feel as though I can no longer inadvertently support Nazi rhetoric indirectly via your supporter payments. Thus, I will be looking for a new platform ASAP and will be disabling all payments to this substack page until I can delete this account and migrate my work to a more reputable, equitable, and morally decent platform.

Just tonight there were circulating social media reports further supporting the already mounting evidence in this matter:

Evidently, Substack also took a large infusion of investment money from a well-known far right billionaire who advocates for bigotry.

As someone who has spent their entire life fighting on the behalf of the underdog, I cannot continue writing here, especially given the circumstances surrounding the future of American democracy.

I hate that this is the case, as I have made several wonderful connections here, as well as found some truly inspirational and wonderful writers. Why does everything which begins as bringing so much good end up bringing so much hurt and hate? It pains me to see how so many platforms become corrupted, and how many people stay for the convenience - despite the harm their decision to engage causes. Is there anything we can participate in these days that brings joy without robbing the poor to give to the rich? These are all disjointed, but somewhat related musings.

As soon as I find a new platform, I’ll be letting you all know and deleting this publication. Stay tuned…