The annual OpenAI DevDay event in San Francisco faced organized protests on Tuesday. Demonstrators gathered outside the Fort Mason venue, featuring participants from over a dozen groups, including the Tech Workers Coalition, Bay Resistance, and the San Francisco Labor Council.
Protesters focused their opposition on OpenAI’s government and military contracts, specifically citing ties to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency. Activists distributed flyers urging the company to terminate these agreements and sign a democracy pledge.
The rally also highlighted concerns regarding the environmental impact of data centers and the broader concentration of power within the artificial intelligence industry. Participants used slogans and chants to call for increased ethical accountability and transparency from the company leadership.
Demonstrators addressed OpenAI employees directly, encouraging them to reconsider their involvement with the firm. The protest remained active until the arrival of CEO Sam Altman, who was the subject of vocal disapproval from the gathered crowd throughout the event.
