The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission found reason to believe that Cisco subjected employees to a hostile work environment based on their national origin, religion, and association with Muslim and Middle Eastern individuals. The finding relates to harassment of pro-Palestinian employees following the Hamas-led attacks on Israel in 2023. Sophia Filipe is part of a case brought by workers accusing Cisco of failing to protect employees from harassment on internal message boards where pro-Palestinian activists were derided as animals.

The EEOC letter dated June 9 stated there was reasonable cause to believe Cisco failed to protect these employees. The finding is not a binding ruling, and both sides indicated the EEOC won't file a lawsuit. Christopher Ho, a lawyer representing current and former Cisco employees, said the finding validates that the harassment was illegal.

Robyn Blum, a Cisco spokeswoman, stated the company disagreed with the finding and had thoroughly investigated concerns. The case is notable given enforcement priorities under the Trump administration.