Petition to Meta: Revise AI Content Moderation Algorithm for Fair Treatment of Small Businesses and Content Creators in the EDC Community

We are the Artisan Tools Association, a trade organization advocating for the online rights of EDC (Every Day Carry) tool makers and enthusiasts. This petition is directed to Meta to revise their AI content moderation algorithm which is unfairly and inaccurately flagging and removing posts from small businesses, makers, and hobbyists, citing violations in terms of use by inaccurately claiming the posts promote violence, self-harm, or suicide. Furthermore, EDC content is also being flagged for "promoting the sale of regulated goods", all while other regulated industries, such as alcohol, appear to have not been affected, running ads and appearing in search results and recommendation feeds.

While we understand there are benefits to content moderation in stopping the spread of misinformation, violence, or the sale of drugs, Meta's current AI moderation system is negatively affecting sales and visitor traffic of many legitimate small businesses & makers who are simply looking to make a living and support their families. This includes businesses selling small, legal pocket knives, wallets, multitools, and other everyday carry items.

Meta’s overbroad AI censorship is restricting businesses and content creators who rely on social media to promote their products. Since early 2024, sales have declined sharply, hurting small business owners throughout the country who use Instagram and other Meta affiliates as their sole marketing platform during an already tough economy - we have reached a breaking point where this censorship tool is hurting American families and erroneously targeting a community of people who are simply outdoor, camping, and everyday carry hobbyists, as well as leather goods makers and metalsmiths. 

Small businesses are the backbone of this country, and we will not stand by idly and watch the decline of more hard-working entrepreneurs due to an overzealous & inconsistent AI algorithm. 

We, the undersigned, are petitioning META to revise, train, and/or program their AI content moderation tool to stop unfairly targeting businesses and content creators looking to post & promote their lawful EDC products.