Brendan Eich Steps Down As Mozilla CEO

New submitter matafagafo (1343219) writes with this news, straight from the Mozilla blog, which comes in the wake of controversy over Brendan Eich's polticial views (in particular, his support for California's Proposition 8, which would have reversed a decision legalizing same-sex marriage within the state). and how they would reflect on the organization : "Brendan Eich has chosen to step down from his role as CEO. He's made this decision for Mozilla and our community. Mozilla believes both in equality and freedom of speech. Equality is necessary for meaningful speech. And you need free speech to fight for equality. Figuring out how to stand for both at the same time can be hard ..."

Good job community

[Anonymous Coward]

Now, the next time we disagree with anything that a CEO does, then we should issue a boycott of more of their completely unrelated, free software.

So, when do we start boycotting Linus for being one of the biggest jerks in the community?

Re:Good job community

[Anonymous Coward]

When do we start boycotting rms for smelling bad?

Re:I think this is bullshit

[JWW]

No, no, no. First you vilify your opponent then you Godwin them!!

You've done it completely backwards!!

Talk about conflicted...

[Hussman32]

Okay, I'm trying to summarize all of the events and make some sense out of it. In 2008, Eich gives $1,000 for support of Prop 8. I voted against Prop 8, as did 48% of the other Californians who voted that day (remember the measure passed). To my knowledge, he has said nothing otherwise and apparently did not interfere with apparently LGBT friendly policies of the Mozilla Corporation. In 2012, his donation was leaked somehow, and it causes headlines to flare. Two years ago. Late March 2014, the Mozilla board selects him as the CEO (he obviously is qualified for the job based on experience), full well knowing about his donation and the internal opposition. In April 2014, virtual blip on the online dating scene, OkCupid, capitalizes first and makes a glorious stand against the Mozilla browser because of a 6 year old donation. The media puts them on every front page, highlighting their commitment to LGBT rights and providing hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of free advertising.

So what do I get out of this? The board saw a win-win, if he can weather the storm of the Prop 8 fiasco then they get one of the most technically competent CEOs available, otherwise, they push him out and get a lot of visibility for doing so (and maybe more converts).

OkCupid was smart to capitalize, and Eich, whom I disagree with, gets the hammer.

I think Howard Stern was right, if you're planning on leading a public company, keep your mouth shut and be everybody's best friend.