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Mozilla CEO steps down amid gay marriage controversy

Alex Yau
April 4, 2014

Brendan Eich lasts just two weeks in job after it emerged he donated to Californian anti-gay marriage campaign

The recently appointed chief executive office of Mozilla has resigned after it emerged he made a $1,000 donation to an anti-gay marriage campaign.

Brendan Eich had been in the post for less than two weeks but a blog post from Mozilla executive chairwoman Mitchell Baker last night confirmed he had left his post.

She said that “Mozilla didn’t act like like you’d expect Mozilla to act” and apologised for not moving fast enough to end the controversy.

“Brendan has chosen to step down from his role as CEO. He’s made this decision for Mozilla and our community,” she wrote.

“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.

“Our organisational culture reflects diversity and inclusiveness. We welcome contributions from everyone regardless of age, culture, ethnicity, gender, gender-identity, language, race, sexual orientation, geographical location and religious views. Mozilla supports equality for all.”

Three members of its board resigned last week over the appointment, it is unclear whether they will be reinstated.

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