Apple’s board of directors has urged shareholders to reject a proposal to dismantle its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.
This stance contrasts with recent decisions by Meta, McDonald’s, and other companies to withdraw from such programs. The proposal, put forward by the National Center for Public Policy Research, a conservative think tank, called for Apple to terminate its DEI programs to avoid potential legal challenges.
The suggestion was framed in light of the 2023 Supreme Court ruling declaring affirmative action in universities unconstitutional. However, Apple’s leadership firmly opposed the proposal, stating, “The proposal is unnecessary as Apple already has a well-established compliance program.”
The board criticized the think tank’s attempt to “micromanage” Apple, calling the proposal an inappropriate intrusion into its business operations. Apple emphasized its commitment to equitable practices, declaring, “Apple is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in recruiting, hiring, training, or promoting on any basis protected by law.”
Shareholders are set to vote on the proposal during Apple’s annual general meeting scheduled for February 25.
