On August 20, police arrested 18 individuals during a protest at Microsoft’s Redmond campus, according to the Redmond Police Department.
“18 arrested for various charges during a protest at Microsoft Campus. Redmond police are at the scene of a demonstration at the Microsoft campus. On Aug 20, around 12:15 p.m., Redmond officers were dispatched to a large gathering of protestors in the Microsoft courtyard,” the department posted on X.
Officers reported that protesters resisted when approached, becoming aggressive.
“A few protesters had poured paint over the Microsoft sign and on the ground.”
18 arrested for various charges during a protest at Microsoft Campus
Redmond police are at the scene of a demonstration at the Microsoft campus. On Aug 20, around 12:15 p.m., Redmond officers were dispatched to a large gathering of protestors in the Microsoft courtyard.… pic.twitter.com/L4jzjsdxkT
— RedmondWaPD (@RedmondWaPD) August 20, 2025
Barricades and Property Damage
Some protesters blocked a pedestrian bridge using stolen tables and chairs from vendors.
“Officers took 18 into custody for multiple charges, including trespassing, malicious mischief, resisting arrest, and obstruction. No injuries were reported,” the Redmond Police added.
Redmond Police shared images showing red paint scattered across the Microsoft sign, highlighting the damage caused during the protest.
Microsoft Responds
“Today, the group returned and engaged in vandalism and property damage,” Microsoft said in a statement.
“They also disrupted, harassed, and took tables and tents from local small businesses at a lunchtime farmer’s market for employees.”
“Microsoft deeply appreciates and supports the actions of local law enforcement officers and the Redmond Police Department,” the company added.
Why Employees Protested
The protest was organized by the group No Azure for Apartheid, urging Microsoft to stop selling its products to Israel, claiming the technology contributes to civilian deaths in Gaza.
In response, Microsoft stated in May that it had:
“Found no evidence to date that Microsoft’s Azure and AI technologies have been used to target or harm people in the conflict in Gaza.”
“As we have made clear, Microsoft is committed to its human rights standards and contractual terms of service, including in the Middle East,” the company added.
