Silicon Valley tech firm apologises for sexist stunt after backlash at industry event
A major Silicon Valley tech firm, Palo Alto Networks, has issued an apology following widespread criticism for its controversial marketing stunt at an industry event in Las Vegas.
Palo Alto Networks Faces Backlash Over Lamp‑Hued “Human Lampstands”
At this year’s Black Hat, Palo Alto Networks put a spotlight on its networking event—and not the good kind. Images that surfaced show female models, all decked out in tight outfits, wearing lampshades over their heads to serve as living light fixtures. The photos sparked an outcry, with critics saying the stunt turned women into props.
Company’s Own Takeover
Nikesh Arora, CEO of Palo Alto, publicly apologized for what he called a “misguided attempt to welcome guests.” He admitted the lamp‑wearing hostesses were unsuitable and “inappropriate.” Unnikrishnan KP, the CMO, joined in: “This decision was tone‑deaf, poor taste, and not in line with our company values.”
Industry Reactions
- Olivia Rose, cybersecurity advisor, slammed the event on LinkedIn, pointing out that the stunt reduced women to mere props and that staff felt scared to voice concerns.
- Tech veteran Emily Chang referenced her book Brotopia, underscoring how Silicon Valley’s “bro” culture keeps echoing sexist practices.
- Comments on social media critiqued the apology for not recognizing the underlying sexism and misogyny that surrounded the lamp stunt.
The Bro Culture Context
For years, Silicon Valley has been called a “bro” environment—male‑dominated and often dismissive of women. The incident rekindled memories of the early‑2000s “booth babes” era, which companies eventually abandoned but somehow lingered far longer than they should have.
What’s Next?
Palo Alto Networks has launched an internal investigation to uncover how the decision was made and to make sure something like this never happens again. Critics, however, remain skeptical, demanding a deeper reckoning with the sexism that made the lamp stand idea possible.
