Behind the Scenes: Notes from the Executive Director’s Desk

Good news from the fight against algorithmic discrimination

By: Kate Scott
July 31, 2025

I write to you today with an update on the ERC’s lawsuit against Meta. In February, we sued the tech giant, alleging that the platform steered ads for for-profit colleges and universities to Black users while disproportionately steering ads for public nonprofit colleges and universities to white users. Research shows that people who attend for-profit schools—especially Black students—are often saddled with high debt and go on to make lower salaries than those who attend nonprofit colleges and universities. This week, D.C. Superior Court Judge Yvonne Williams denied Meta’s motion to dismiss the lawsuit. 

In their motion to dismiss, attorneys for Meta argued that the ERC failed to state a claim under D.C. law and that Meta was immune under Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act. Judge Williams found “none of Defendant’s arguments persuasive” and denied Meta’s motion in full. 

Amid an overwhelming onslaught of attacks against civil and human rights by some of the most powerful people and corporations in the world, our ability to continue fighting for fair treatment feels especially significant. Even with the odds stacked against us, justice is within closer reach. We know that the fight will not be easy—it takes a steadfast commitment to what we know is right and a cohort of allies to propel us—but it’s possible. One way you can help is by donating. 

It’s easy to feel hopeless in this political climate. I’ve felt that way more than once these past few months. But I hope this bit of good news galvanizes you like it has me. Our work may be more difficult, but it’s not impossible, and it’s worth fighting for. 

In solidarity,
Kate