Stating “All Lives Matter” Is in the “Red Zone” at Work. Thoughts Wanted

9 points

6 years ago

I work for a large tech company in the Bay Area. Every month they host a broadcast to the entire company to talk about miscellaneous topics, most recent of which has been about the protests. On today's broadcast, various high-ups shared their position on the usage of "All Lives Matter". All of those who shared their thoughts made it clear that the statement "All Lives Matter" categorically belongs to the "red zone", which is defined as "illegal and toxic because the incidents are more frequent or severe". In other words, residing within this spectrum is within bounds of justification for severe repercussions or even firing. Stating "Black Lives Matter", however, is clearly within the "green zone", as is openly stated and encouraged. This isn't codified as official policy yet, but the verbalization of it makes it clear HR will act as if it were.

I felt compelled to share this because I have found it to be deeply concerning. The intent of this post isn't whether "All Lives Matter" or "Black Lives Matter" is the morally superior position, but rather is about the fact that one can now face serious repercussions for holding the wrong political opinion based on what management subjectively interprets as its meaning, all the while a different political opinion is openly endorsed and encouraged without consequence. I have felt a sudden chill today like no other. Political discourse in the company is becoming more common, open and encouraged, but it is clear only those with a particular political bent are allowed to engage. Others that I know who also work within the tech industry are seeing the same swift culture change within their own organizations. After watching this broadcast, I happened to stumble upon this article which I cannot help but make parallels with https://www.wsj.com/articles/the-medias-self-censors-11591829694?mod=hp_opin_pos_2.

I am curious to know if any of you are witnessing the same changes and have the same concerns.

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