Cisco Accused of Fostering Hostile Work Environment for Pro-Palestine Employees
A US investigation has found that Cisco likely created a 'hostile work environment' for pro-Palestinian employees. The US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) concluded that Cisco subjected staff to harassment based on their national origin, religion, and association with Muslim and Middle Eastern individuals.
The allegations revolve around Bridge to Humanity, an internal group of 1,700 Palestinian, Arab, and/or Muslim employees who circulated a letter criticizing the company for allegedly selling surveillance technology to the Israeli military. The employees claimed they faced vicious and Islamophobic harassment in Cisco-moderated online spaces and outside of work.
Cisco denied any wrongdoing, stating that it thoroughly investigated the concerns and took appropriate action. However, the EEOC found reasonable cause to believe that Cisco failed to protect its staff from discrimination. The determination is not a final court ruling but can be used as evidence in future legal proceedings.