mis·in·for·ma·tion:
false or inaccurate information, especially that which is deliberately intended to deceive. Source: The Washington Post
dis·in·for·ma·tion:
false information deliberately and often covertly spread (as by the planting of rumors) in order to influence public opinion or obscure the truth. Source: Merriam-Webster
mal·in·for·ma·tion:
genuine information intended to harm individuals or groups, including leaks, harassment, and hate speech. Source: Brookings Institute
Far-right operatives are trying to create a hostile universe on the internet where the truth is relative and hate thrives. They manipulate facts in order to normalize racism and sexism and bully feminists online. There are real-life consequences for allowing these hateful lies to spread. Gendered and racialized disinformation campaigns have advanced the worst anti-abortion laws in the country and are among the biggest deterrents for Black, Indigenous, and women of color to seek and hold public office and advance progressive policy.
To protect the truth, our communities, and our nation’s democracy, we must confront this crisis with a coordinated communications and accountability strategy, both for social and traditional media.