Cisco to “power an inclusive future for all.”
This year’s Cisco Live opened with a powerful keynote from CEO Chuck Robbins, centered on the event’s theme ‘Possibilities.’
The keynote mentioned one or two product announcements but primarily focused on the challenges we face as a society in 2020.
Chuck talked about Cisco’s role in advancing society and creating a more inclusive future, underpinned by its purpose: “power and inclusion for all.” This purpose, incredibly pertinent to current circumstances, was a direction and commitment Cisco made several months ago.
Naming the deaths that have led to worldwide outrage and protests, including Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, George Floyd, and Rayshard Brooks, Chuck spoke of the need for “dignity, respect, fairness, and equality in all of our societies.” He also talked of how “centuries of inequality, injustice, and fragility” have underpinned our society and the need for change.
Chuck passionately shared how the combination of Cisco’s technology, communities, and social responsibility can connect the unconnected, deliver needed services such as healthcare and education, and provide opportunities.
The keynote set the stage in many ways. Its strong social message – how technology can change society and societal issues – connected with the team here at Quaversal. There’s a much longer conversation about the role that technology can play to defeat systemic racism. As technologists, we see that access to technology evens out the playing field. Ensuring underserved communities and individuals have access to technology is a crucial way to enable and reinforce change.
Cisco has also stepped up, showing how companies can support change. The company donated $500 million to societal causes and funds, including $5 million to the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, a purpose we actively support.
As a Cisco partner, we have always appreciated Cisco’s dedication to using technology for positive change. Right now, that change is needed more than ever. Count us in.
