Times Up Calls On CBS to Donate Les Moonves’s $120 Million Severance to Charity

In an open letter posted late Tuesday, Times Up, the movement to end sexual harassment in the workplace, has called on the CBS Board of Directors to donate ousted CEO Les Moonves’s severance package to charity.

Moonves could be eligible for up to $120 million in severance under the terms of his employment with CBS. However, the outcome of an investigation into allegations of sexual harassment lodged against him could result in his losing some or all of his severance.

“That is $120 million dollars that will either go to Mr. Moonves or back into the coffers of the company that allowed the culture created by Mr. Moonves to continue,” the letter states. “Or that $120 million can create change by going to organizations — and there are many impactful organizations — that can help women of all kinds. The choice is yours.”

Many people consider Moonves to be the most powerful CEO taken down by accusations in the #MeToo movement so far. He had been an executive at the network since 1995.

“We ask that you review and remake not only the structure, but the culture, of CBS and take ongoing responsibility for issues of safety and equity in your company,” the letter reads.

The letter says that while the addition of more women to the board was welcome, CBS failed to add any women of color or other underrepresented people to the board “reflective of CBS’s vast audiences.”

Times Up also asked in the letter for independent investigations, a pay-equity study, and diversity training.

“Full, independent investigations of alleged wrongdoing and the departure of a few executives is only the start. Real progress can only occur with a transparent commitment to long-term structural changes from top to bottom.”

CBS previously announced it would donate $20 million to women’s organizations in the wake of the allegations against Moonves. According to an SEC filing on Monday, the recipients would be chosen by Moonves and CBS. Moonves resigned Sunday.

The Chronicle tried to reach CBS for comment Wednesday morning but has not heard back.