Eight former SpaceX employees allege they were dismissed on Musk’s orders after raising concerns about workplace harassment and Musk’s behavior.
Eight former employees of SpaceX have filed a lawsuit against the company and its CEO, Elon Musk, claiming that Musk personally directed their dismissal in response to an open letter they circulated in 2022. The letter criticized Musk’s behavior as “a frequent source of distraction and embarrassment” for SpaceX.
The suit further alleges that SpaceX fosters a culture of sexism, with Musk creating an atmosphere where women are objectified, subjected to inappropriate sexual comments, and discouraged from addressing grievances. In their legal filing, the former employees argue that Musk’s management style promotes an “Animal House” work environment, leaving employees feeling they must either accept the culture or leave the company.
SpaceX has not publicly responded to the lawsuit, but the company’s president, Gwynne Shotwell, defended SpaceX in comments made to The Wall Street Journal. Shotwell stated that the publication’s portrayal of SpaceX was inaccurate, emphasizing that Musk is “one of the best humans” she knows. She assured the Journal that SpaceX thoroughly investigates all harassment complaints and responds with suitable measures.
The lawsuit brings further scrutiny to SpaceX’s workplace environment, sparking discussions about corporate culture and leadership accountability at the tech company.
