Ban Portuguese Slurs from Usernames and Posts

[Camilotk]

Description:

With the recent influx of Brazilian users due to the temporary ban on X in Brazil, it is crucial that Bluesky enhances its moderation tools to prevent the use of Portuguese slurs in usernames and posts. While the platform has made strides in banning slurs in other languages, it is imperative to extend these efforts to include Portuguese to ensure a safe and respectful environment for all users since right now we have a lot of propblematic handles in Portuguese on BSKY.

Problem:

As Bluesky experiences a surge in Brazilian users, the platform has become vulnerable to the use of Portuguese slurs, which can target and harm individuals based on their race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, and other protected characteristics. Currently, these slurs may not be adequately flagged by the platform's moderation tools, leading to potential harassment and a hostile environment.

Examples:

• Users may create usernames or posts containing slurs like some I notice being used as "estuprador," "retardado," or "bicha," which are offensive in Brazilian Portuguese.
• Some terms, such as "bicha", while commonly used in certain contexts within minority groups, can also be derogatory and should be closely monitored. Others, like "estuprador" and "retardado", are inherently inappropriate and should be strictly prohibited.

Proposed Solution:

1. Update the Banned Words List: Expand the existing banned words list to include a comprehensive set of Portuguese slurs. This list should be carefully curated with input from native Portuguese speakers to ensure accuracy and cultural relevance.

2. Implement Real-Time Moderation: Enhance the moderation tools to automatically flag and review posts containing Portuguese slurs in real-time, preventing their use before they can harm users.

3. Community Guidelines Update: Clearly state in the community guidelines that the use of slurs, including those in Portuguese, is strictly prohibited and will result in immediate action.

4. Increased Human Oversight: Consider expanding the trust and safety team with Portuguese-speaking moderators to review flagged content and ensure the guidelines are enforced consistently.

Conclusion:

By proactively addressing the issue of Portuguese slurs on the platform, Bluesky can create a more inclusive and welcoming space for its rapidly growing Brazilian user base comming from X. Failure to act on this could lead to increased harassment and a decline in user trust.

Additional Context:

This issue follows similar concerns raised by users regarding the presence of slurs in other languages. Recent moderation challenges have highlighted the need for a more robust approach to handling offensive content, particularly in a multilingual context.