21st Century Fox heads James and Lachlan Murdoch sent an internal memo to staffers on Monday criticizing President Trump’s travel ban. But the message, obtained by TheWrap, stopped short of condemning the executive order.
The brothers explained that their company was founded by immigrants and went on to vow to help employees impacted by restrictions on travel from seven Muslim countries.
“With the recent changes to the U.S.’s immigration policies, we know this is a time of real uncertainty for many of our colleagues around the world,” the Murdoch brothers wrote.
It went on: “First of all, we want to assure you that we’re doing what we can to assist impacted colleagues and their families. While details of the new policy remain in flux in many instances, we do know it has broad implications. The new restrictions impact business travelers and current employees from seven countries for an initial period of 90 days. The current restrictions are not limited to visa holders, but also extend to permanent residents who are citizens of those countries.”
The memo further emphasized that their “immediate focus is on identifying and reaching out to people who may be affected” with various means of support, including legal advice and assistance. “If you have any questions about how you and your family may be impacted, please contact your business unit HR manager,” it read.
Fox News Channel, which is owned by 21st Century Fox, featured a primetime lineup of cable news hosts defending the executive order on Monday night, although Bill O’Reilly admitted it could have been rolled out more smoothly and should have been announced with a Muslim outreach program.
Rupert Murdoch, James and Lachlan’s father who founded the company and turned the family into media moguls, was born in Australia.
“21CF is a global company, proudly headquartered in the U.S., founded by — and comprising at all levels of the business — immigrants. We deeply value diversity and believe immigration is an essential part of America’s strength. Moreover, as a company that is driven by creativity and innovation, we recognize the unique perspective offered by our many people who came to the U.S. in search of the opportunity for unfettered self-expression,” the Monday memo went on to say.
The Murdoch brothers concluded: “We will continue to monitor developments in what is still a fluid situation. We will keep you informed as we learn more. In the meantime, please know that the well-being of our colleagues is our top priority.”