Meta Faces Backlash Over Massive Layoffs and AI Model Training Shifts

Meta’s recent decision to lay off 8,000 employees (10% of its workforce) and reassign another 7,000 staff members for AI model training has sparked intense backlash. The move was met with fierce criticism from both employees and the tech community. Termination emails were sent out at 4am, shocking many.

Ex-employees have taken to social media platforms like X to express their frustration over what they perceive as unprofessional and toxic behavior. Jeremy Bernier, a former engineer, called Meta “the most toxic company I have worked for.”

Another ex-employee, David Frenk, created a viral anti-AI video parodying ‘American Pie’. The video highlights the disconnect between mass layoffs and record-breaking profits, criticizing Meta’s Model Capability Initiative (MCI) which tracks staff mouse clicks and keystrokes for AI training.

The video has gained traction beyond internal channels, particularly on Blind where employees are voicing concerns about the negative culture in the tech industry.