Tech Workers Urge Leaders to Oppose ICE Policies

In recent days, over 400 tech workers have urged their company leaders to take a stand against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) policies. This call to action emerged after a tragic incident resulted in the death of Alex Pretti. Despite the grave circumstances, the industry’s top executives have remained silent.

Tech Industry’s Response to Recent Events

The plea from employees of major tech companies comes in the wake of violence perpetrated by masked federal agents. Notably, Pretti’s death is not an isolated incident; it follows another recent shooting involving ICE in which a woman, Renee Good, lost her life. These events have sparked outrage among tech professionals who believe their industry should advocate for justice.

History of Federal Action and Tech Leaders’ Influence

In October, then-President Trump reversed plans to deploy federal law enforcement in San Francisco after tech leaders, including Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang and Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff, expressed their concerns directly to the White House. This incident highlighted the potential influence that tech executives can exert over governmental actions.

ICEout Petition Demands Action

The ICEout petition outlines three specific demands for tech CEOs:

• Call the White House and demand ICE leave our cities.
• Cancel all company contracts with ICE.
• Publicly condemn ICE’s violent actions.

As of mid-Monday, approximately 450 tech employees had signed this urgent letter appealing for equitable policies.

Technology Companies Remain Silent

Despite the widespread support from employees at companies like Amazon, Apple, Google, and Microsoft, responses from executives have been minimal. A collective inquiry sent to 16 companies, including notable names in technology and finance, yielded no immediate replies.

Local Business Leaders Take a Stand

Meanwhile, over 60 CEOs from leading Minnesota-based companies, such as 3M and Target, signed an open letter urging for de-escalation of tensions and cooperation among all levels of government. Their collective voice aims for constructive solutions in light of escalating violence.

The growing demand for scrutiny and accountability surrounding ICE’s actions reflects a broader concern regarding the treatment of individuals in America. Employees in the tech sector assert that the industry holds the power to effect meaningful change.