Most people who know even just a little about technology are familiar with the Mozilla Foundation which has produced iconic free software like Firefox browser and ThunderBird electronic mail products. Recently, the company has been undergoing turmoil surrounding the appointment of a new CEO who was seen as a choice that went against the corporate culture of Mozilla.
Company employees took to social networks to voice their disagreement after the appointment of new CEO Brendan Eich, who financially supported a bill against gay marriage in California. Many voiced their opinion that same sex unions are universal right and some even resigned their posts.
Eich's intolerant position is at odds with the culture of Mozilla, a company that supports the rights of minorities, a mainstay of a company that makes software that is free and available to all regardless of financial status.
We see here the power of a corporate philosophy that fosters employees to be part of a culture of change and to advance the core values of a company within an organization in a very organic way. It's said that a company's best advertising is its own employees, a by advocating freedom and defending human rights that should be universal, Mozilla puts forward a very solid brand image.
Although this collective action was polarizing, no one can say that Mozilla and its employees are not true to themselves and their vision of their corporate culture.
Ten days after Mozilla employees took to the internet to express their opinions, Brendan Eich resigned his office and the foundation published a statement on its blog that declared: “We have not performed as expected at Mozilla. We were not quick enough when the controversy started. Sorry. We must do better.”
Is it justified the position of the employees according to the philosophy of the company or does it hurt the company in the end? What do you think?
Guillermo Lamphar is Community Manager at Mijo! Brands of Mexico.