The criticism of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is growing, not just in the U.S. but globally. Recently, Capgemini, a leading French consulting firm, announced it would sell its U.S. division that works with ICE. This decision follows increased scrutiny over the agency’s controversial enforcement methods.
Capgemini is not alone; many businesses are feeling pressure over their ties to ICE. For example, the real estate group Jim Pattison Developments and the social media firm Hootsuite have also been criticized.
People across major U.S. cities protested against ICE over the weekend. This was in response to recent incidents, including two fatal shootings by ICE agents. Such events have heightened public awareness and concern about the agency’s actions.
Capgemini’s decision aligns with a $4.8 million contract awarded by the Department of Homeland Security to its U.S. division for “skip tracing” services. This process involves tracking down individuals who are hard to locate. The company’s CEO, Aiman Ezzat, expressed that their involvement in this area prompted significant questions about their business ethics.
Recently, the Multinationals Observatory, a corporate watchdog based in Paris, highlighted this contract, sparking more scrutiny. France’s finance and economy minister, Roland Lescure, has raised concerns as well.
Historical connections between corporations and government agencies illustrate how public sentiment evolves. Businesses have often faced backlash in times of political turmoil, prompting them to reassess their partnerships.
In Canada, Green Party leader Emily Lowan has called for a boycott of businesses owned by Jim Pattison unless he cuts his ties with ICE. Meanwhile, Jim Pattison Developments stated it would halt plans to sell a warehouse to the Department of Homeland Security, a move that generated speculation.
Protests against Hootsuite are also gaining momentum. Protesters have voiced their concerns about the company’s dealings with ICE’s public affairs division. Hootsuite CEO Irina Novoselsky clarified that their tools are not used for tracking individuals but acknowledged the complex emotions surrounding these issues.
In America, companies are also distancing themselves from ICE. For instance, property owners in Oklahoma City have decided to cease discussions with the Department of Homeland Security regarding a potential lease, with the city’s mayor applauding the move.
Retail giants like Target and Best Buy have urged for less tension surrounding immigration issues. As public opinion shifts, businesses are increasingly forced to navigate these sensitive waters carefully.
For those interested, you can find more information on the contract details here.
