If you would rather not see "Recommended by Pocket" stories or "Messages from Firefox" (snippets) on the New Tab page, it's easy to hide them. See Customize your New Tab page to hide or display content.
Here's a statement from Mozilla on what's driving some of these stories and messages:
"Systemic change -- the real change that this moment deserves, begins with reckoning with America's long history of racial injustice and violence. It requires recognizing how prejudice and injustice continue to corrode the fabric of our society. Platforms have power. During this time, we're using ours to elevate and amplify black and other marginalized voices, and messages that shine a light on these critical issues. This is a starting point that also includes driving change within Mozilla."
