Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff sparked controversy during the company’s internal “Company Kickoff” event in Las Vegas by making jokes about Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which have reportedly upset numerous employees. Internal communications from the event depict employee frustrations, particularly about jokes related to ICE surveilling their travel — a sensitive topic given that some staff members may feel apprehensive about traveling for work due to current immigration policies.
Multiple messages from employees express disappointment over Benioff’s comments, with one individual stating, “It’s hard to believe this company still has values when you make completely off-base jokes about ICE in your opening keynote.” Another employee remarked on the inappropriateness of the remarks, especially following a welcome to teammates who had traveled from abroad.
These comments come amid a backdrop of organizational changes within Salesforce, including employee layoffs and new leadership appointments. Earlier this month, the company reduced its workforce, reflecting ongoing adjustments within the tech industry amidst economic pressures.
Benioff’s previous statements have also drawn criticism, such as when he suggested the deployment of the National Guard to San Francisco ahead of Salesforce’s Dreamforce conference, a comment that he later retracted. His handling of previous layoffs has also faced backlash, particularly a lengthy address that many employees described as “tone-deaf.”
This recent incident underscores the challenges company leaders face in maintaining morale and cultural sensitivity, particularly in a diverse global workforce. For many employees at Salesforce, the need for a supportive environment is paramount, especially during turbulent times. As the company navigates through these changes, the hope remains that it will also prioritize fostering an inclusive atmosphere where all employees feel respected and valued.