The Parler social platform is back online with a note from CEO John Matze that it will be available again to users soon.
The Twitter rival – used overwhelmingly by conservatives seeking to escape censorship from other social sites – was pulled from both the Apple and Google apps stores and had its servers shut down by Amazon, which had been the platform's web host.
Matze posted a short note to Parler's website, which currently only features a singular landing page.
"Now seems like the right time to remind you all — both lovers and haters — why we started this platform," wrote Matze. "We believe privacy is paramount and free speech essential, especially on social media. Our aim has always been to provide a nonpartisan public square where individuals can enjoy and exercise their rights to both."
Matze also said the site plans to welcome users back soon and that he "will not let civil discourse perish."
The site is reportedly using provider Epik to host its servers.
While Apple, Google, and Amazon said the decision to de-platform and shut down Parler was to limit the perceived threat of violence following the Capitol riot earlier this month, the move has caused widespread outcry from individuals calling it a violation of free speech and antitrust laws.
🔦 Matze also went into hiding last week with his family due to ongoing death threats he has continued to receive.
