FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 2, 2021

STATEMENT FROM THE MUSLIM NETWORK REGARDING MUSLIM WOMAN’S DISCRIMINATION AT BLACKROCK, INC.

In the Name of Allah, The Most Gracious, The Most Merciful 

The Muslim Network stands in solidarity with Essma Bengabsia and all BIPOC employees, past and present who, have and continue to face racism, sexual harassment, Islamophobia, and other forms of discrimination at the hands of BlackRock Inc., the world’s largest asset management firm. 

In 2018, Essma joined BlackRock at its New York headquarters as the only hijab-wearing Muslim woman to work on the trading floor. Until her departure in 2019, Essma experienced relentless mistreatment, including attacks on her ethnic identity and sexual harassment from colleagues.  

Despite documenting all of her experiences and seeking help from senior-ranking investors and Human Resources, she was not offered adequate assistance, and no one was held accountable.

The Muslim Network commends Essma Bengabsia for her courage in publicly speaking out and demanding justice for herself and other BIPOC employees at BlackRock. 

We demand that BlackRock hold itself accountable and take action to end its discriminatory practices by meeting the demands outlined in the petition.

We call on our partners, supporters, and communities to stand with Essma and let major companies like BlackRock know that we will not allow them to continue to silence, harm, and alienate BIPOC employees. Please sign the petition here.