Watermelon Cupcakes Kicked Off an Internal Storm at Meta

Arab and Muslim employees at Meta raised concerns over the company's handling of the crisis in Gaza, triggered by a dispute over watermelon cupcakes planned for an event. The use of watermelon, symbolizing Palestinian resistance, was deemed disruptive by management. This incident reflects broader tensions within the tech industry related to the Israel-Hamas conflict. Employees, including Saima Akhter, criticized Meta's internal censorship and alleged biased treatment of pro-Palestinian content. Meta's actions, including firing employees like Akhter, have sparked backlash and legal challenges. The company's restrictions on discussing war or statehood internally have led to accusations of suppression and uneven enforcement. Employees have called for acknowledgment of the Gaza crisis, a ceasefire, and a more inclusive workplace. Meta's policies around content moderation and internal discussions have faced scrutiny, with employees pointing out perceived biases and inconsistencies. The company's response to expressions of sympathy and support for Palestinians has been questioned, leading to internal discontent and legal complaints. The situation highlights ongoing challenges around diversity, censorship, and employee activism within tech companies like Meta.