Google, through the blog of its co-founder, Sergey Brin, communicated its stance in favor of marriage between equals and calls on the inhabitants of California to demonstrate against 'Proposition 8'. Following in Google's footsteps, other multinationals are now speaking out against the bill that aims to ban gay marriage in the state.
Brin said he never speaks out on issues that don't have to do with his business, but if passed, Proposition 8 would negatively affect many of the company's employees. "It is the proposition's terrifying and discriminatory effect on many of our employees that leads Google to take a stand against 'Proposition 8'. We should not eliminate the fundamental right of anyone, whatever their sexuality, to marry the person who he loves."
Among the other multinationals supporting the union is Levi's, which donated 25 thousand dollars directly and 100 thousand dollars through its director and wife. The clothing brand said the donation is consistent with its history of supporting civil rights. Pepsi, despite the risk of being boycotted, donated half a million dollars to the Association of Parents, Families and Friends of Gays and Lesbians – PFLAG.
The organization stated that the donation will serve to maintain the "Straights for Equality" campaign, which educates heterosexuals to also fight for the rights of gays and lesbians.
AT&T also made a donation to the campaign, the amounts were not disclosed.
