Google CEO Sundar Pichai speaks out in support of Muslims

Google CEO Sundar Pichai is the latest tech executive to issue an open call for tolerance after Donald Trump called for a ban on Muslims entering the United States. The top executive is all set to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi later this month during his first overseas visit after taking on the role of Google’s CEO.

In an open letter titled “Let’s not let fear defeat our values,” Pichai did not refer to Trump by name, but made a reference to the controversy, writing: “I feel we must speak out — particularly those of us who are not under attack. Everyone has the right to their views, but it’s also important that those who are less represented know that those are not the views of all.”

Pichai, who was named to the top position at Google in August, is himself an immigrant. Born in Chennai, he moved to the U.S. as an adult to go to school, an experience he recounted in his post: “The open-mindedness, tolerance, and acceptance of new Americans is one of the country’s greatest strengths and most defining characteristics. And that is no coincidence - US was and is a country of immigrants. 

That is why it’s so disheartening to see the intolerant discourse playing out in the news these days — statements that our country would be a better place without the voices, ideas and the contributions of certain groups of people, based solely on where they come from, or their religion.

I walk around the campus where I work and see a vibrant mix of races and cultures. Every one of those people has a different voice … a different perspective … a different story to tell.”