Apple Board Opposes Proposal to Abolish DEI Programs

In Brief

Apple's board of directors has come out in opposition to a proposal seeking to end the company's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs.

Background and Proposal Details

In a proxy filing, the company stated that the National Center for Public Policy Research, a conservative think tank, is submitting a proposal for Apple to "consider abolishing its Inclusion & Diversity program, policies, department and goals."

Think Tank's Rationale

The think tank's proposal cites the recent Supreme Court ruling against race-based affirmative action in colleges. It notes that other companies have eliminated or scaled back similar programs, claiming that DEI initiatives could make companies vulnerable to lawsuits. Recently, for example, Meta eliminated its DEI programs, and Amazon is reportedly pulling back as well.

Apple's Response

Apple, however, contends that the proposal is "unnecessary" because the company "already has a well-established compliance program" that would presumably keep it out of legal trouble. The filing also criticizes the proposal for "inappropriately seeking to micromanage the Company's programs and policies."

Commitment to Inclusion

The company also expressed its commitment to strive "to create a culture of belonging where everyone can do their best work."