United States: Apple wants to keep diversity programs

Apple’s board of directors has ruled against a shareholder proposal to end its diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs like other major companies, according to a document seen by the ‘AFP Saturday.

The National Center for Public Policy Research, a conservative think tank, submitted to shareholders a proposal to “abandon DEI efforts,” according to an official Apple document submitted Friday to the US Markets Watchdog (SEC ).

According to this group, programs promoting diversity in recruitment expose companies to potential legal action, after a Supreme Court decision against affirmative action in universities.

In accordance with the law

The board of directors, on which Tim Cook, the boss of the Californian company, sits, however rejected this argument, stressing that Apple has a “well-established” program to comply with the law.

Board members accused the conservative think tank of trying to “micro-manage” the company.

Its proposal seeks “inappropriately to restrict Apple’s ability to manage its own ordinary business operations, staff and teams, and business strategies,” they pointed out.

“No discrimination in recruitment”

The iPhone manufacturer “does not practice any discrimination in recruiting, hiring, training or promotion,” the board of directors further argued.

The proposal will be put to a vote by shareholders at Apple’s general meeting on February 25.

As Donald Trump becomes president, many American giants such as McDonald’s, Ford, and Walmart supermarkets have announced that they are ending their DEI programs. Meta announced on Friday that it was taking the plunge in turn.

Donald Trump and conservatives have for years been increasing criticism of companies’ efforts to promote more diversity in their workforce.

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