(Source-AP Photo_Terry Chea))
Google’s has escalated its response to employee protests regarding its cloud-computing agreement with the Israeli government by terminating an additional 20 workers, as confirmed by the organizing group. The group, No Tech for Apartheid, revealed on Monday evening that Google’s recent firings, combined with previous terminations, now total 50.
Allegations of unfair dismissals have emerged, with No Tech for Apartheid asserting that some of the workers fired were merely bystanders during last week’s sit-in protests. These individuals, the group claims, were not actively engaged in the workplace activism that led to their termination. Describing the mass firings as “an aggressive and desperate act of retaliation,” the group condemned Google’s actions.
Allegations of Unfair Dismissals
A Google spokesperson, in response, acknowledged the additional terminations but declined to disclose specific figures regarding the total number of dismissals related to the protests. The spokesperson emphasized that the firings resulted from an investigation into the physical disruptions during the protests on April 16. According to the spokesperson, all terminated employees were directly involved in disruptive activities within Google’s premises, a claim vehemently contested by protest organizers.
No Tech for Apartheid characterized Google’s actions as a manifestation of executive embarrassment and a misguided attempt to suppress employee activism. The group accused the corporation of targeting individuals merely present near the protests, irrespective of their involvement in the campaign.
Workers Vow to Persist Despite Crackdown
Despite the crackdown, workers remain resolute in their commitment to advocacy within Google’s ranks. They assert their determination to continue sending a message to company executives that they will persist in their fight and refuse to yield. The ongoing protests underscore the deep-seated concerns among Google employees regarding the company’s business dealings and ethical responsibilities.
The backdrop to these protests is the contentious cloud-computing contract between Google and the Israeli government, which has drawn criticism and sparked demonstrations. The timing of the protests coincides with escalating violence in the Middle East, with significant casualties reported in both Israel and Gaza.
The deadly conflict, exacerbated by recent events, has fueled widespread outrage and activism, both within Google and across various sectors of society. The civilian toll, particularly in Gaza, has ignited debates over the ethical implications of corporate partnerships with governments involved in military actions. As tensions persist and public sentiment remains divided, the determination of Google employees to hold the company accountable reflects broader societal concerns regarding corporate responsibility and ethical decision-making in a global context.
