Apple Rejects Proposal to End DEI Programs Amid Legal Concerns

Apple’s board opposes a proposal to abolish its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, emphasizing a commitment to fostering workplace belonging.

Apple Board Stands Firm Against Proposal to Abolish DEI Programs

Apple’s board of directors has firmly opposed a proposal advocating for the dismantling of the company’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, signaling its commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace.

In a recent proxy filing, Apple disclosed that the National Center for Public Policy Research, a conservative think tank, has submitted a proposal urging the company to “consider abolishing its Inclusion & Diversity program, policies, department, and goals.” The think tank argues that DEI programs could expose companies to legal risks, referencing the Supreme Court’s recent ruling against race-based affirmative action in college admissions. It also points to similar moves by other corporations, such as Meta and Amazon, which have scaled back or eliminated their DEI initiatives.

Despite these claims, Apple rejected the proposal, labeling it “unnecessary” and asserting that the company’s robust compliance framework already mitigates potential legal vulnerabilities. The filing also criticized the proposal for attempting to “micromanage the Company’s programs and policies,” arguing that such interference undermines Apple’s operational autonomy.

Apple reaffirmed its dedication to cultivating an inclusive culture, stating that it aims to create a workplace “where everyone can do their best work.” This stance underscores the tech giant’s broader efforts to champion diversity and equity as integral components of its corporate ethos.

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