My understanding is that photographers put their photos on Pexels and similar sites (e.g., Unsplash) willingly, not by force, and that these websites help them promote their work. I also make a point of not using AI-generated imagery and of crediting the photographers with appropriate links. It sounds like you have beef with Pexels, though, so if you've written an essay about it, I'd be glad to read it. Feel free to share the link! :)