Hootsuite CEO Addresses Backlash on U.S. Homeland Security Contract
The CEO of Hootsuite, Irina Novoselsky, has addressed growing concerns over the company’s contract with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), specifically regarding its collaboration with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This contract, which commences in August 2024, is valued at up to $2.8 million and involves the provision of social media management services.
Details of the Contract
According to information from a U.S. government procurement website, Hootsuite is partnering with Seneca Strategic Partners, a firm linked to the Seneca Nation of Indians. The agreement is aimed at providing support services for Hootsuite’s social media management platform for the DHS.
Public Backlash and Protests
A protest organized by Democracy Rising is scheduled outside Hootsuite’s headquarters in Vancouver. The group calls for the company to terminate its contract with ICE and issue a public apology. This movement follows a series of incidents involving ICE, which have escalated tensions in communities, especially in Minnesota.
- Protest Date: Planned for Friday
- Organizer: Democracy Rising
- Demands: Cancel contracts and issue public apology
CEO’s Statement on ICE Engagement
In her statement, Novoselsky expressed her disapproval of the recent enforcement actions carried out by ICE, particularly after two citizens were killed in federal agent-related shootings. She acknowledged the impact these events have had on communities and emphasized that Hootsuite’s tools are not utilized for individual tracking or surveillance.
“Our use-case with ICE does not include tracking or surveillance of individuals using our tools,” she stated, asserting that such claims are false and against Hootsuite’s terms of service.
Previous Contract with ICE
It’s important to note that Hootsuite previously had a contract with ICE, which was terminated in 2020 after an emotional response from staff opposed to working with the agency. The then-CEO cited internal divisions as a primary reason for halting the contract.
Impact on Canadian Businesses
B.C. Attorney General Niki Sharma has urged local businesses to reconsider their partnerships with ICE, reflecting a broader concern about the implications of such associations. This call to action follows a separate transaction involving Jim Pattison Developments, which is selling a Virginia warehouse to ICE.
- Current Climate: Canadian companies urged to evaluate business dealings with ICE
- Example Case: Jim Pattison Developments selling property to ICE
The ongoing situation underscores the complexities faced by global companies like Hootsuite when dealing with sensitive governmental contracts and public sentiment. Adjustments in policy or contracts can drastically affect corporate reputation and employee morale.
