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Microsoft 50-Year Celebration Disrupted By Pro-Palestinian Employee

Apr 04, 2025 - mediapost.com
During Microsoft's 50-year anniversary celebration at its Redmond headquarters, AI CEO Mustafa Suleyman was interrupted by a protest from Microsoft employee Ibtihal Aboussad. Aboussad, a software engineer at the company, criticized Microsoft's involvement with AI tools used by military forces in the Gaza conflict, specifically highlighting a $133 million contract with Israel's Ministry of Defense. She accused the company of silencing dissent and claimed that her community within Microsoft had faced intimidation and harassment. Her protest overshadowed the event, which was intended to showcase new AI features in Microsoft's Copilot software and celebrate the company's history and achievements.

The event, attended by notable figures like Bill Gates and Steve Ballmer, was meant to highlight Microsoft's advancements and its impact on the tech industry. CEO Satya Nadella demonstrated Copilot's capabilities and reflected on Microsoft's journey from its founding by Gates and Paul Allen in 1975 to becoming a leader in software and AI. Despite the protest, the celebration included flashbacks and special guest speakers, emphasizing Microsoft's role in transforming the world through technology.

Key takeaways:

  • Microsoft AI CEO Mustafa Suleyman was interrupted during a 50-year celebration by a protester criticizing the company's AI tools used by military forces in the Gaza war.
  • The protester, Ibtihal Aboussad, is a Microsoft employee who accused the company of silencing dissent and supporting military actions against Palestinians.
  • Microsoft celebrated its 50-year anniversary with new Copilot features and special guest speakers, highlighting its history and advancements in technology.
  • Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella emphasized the company's impact on the world, with partnerships with major digital commerce companies as Copilot launch partners.
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