Apple rejects DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) proposal.
Apple has rejected a proposal to eliminate its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs. The proposal, backed by a conservative think tank, was voted down by 97% of Apple shareholders. The company remains committed to DEI policies despite mounting pressure from anti-DEI advocates. Apple CEO Tim Cook emphasized the company’s dedication to maintaining its culture while acknowledging potential legal adjustments to its DEI programs. This decision reflects a broader debate on the role of DEI in corporate America.
Apple has rejected a proposal to eliminate its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs. This proposal, part of a movement against DEI under the leadership of President Donald Trump, was introduced by the National Center for Public Policy Research, a conservative think tank.
According to the proposal, Apple should reduce its diversity programs and align with Trump’s anti-DEI policies. However, during the shareholder voting on Tuesday, 97% rejected the proposal. Apple’s management firmly opposed the proposal, reaffirming its commitment to DEI programs.
Apple CEO Tim Cook has previously maintained good relations with Trump. These relations benefited Apple when Trump reduced tariffs on iPhones made in China during his time in office. After a recent meeting between Cook and Trump, Apple announced plans to invest $500 billion in the U.S. and create 20,000 jobs over the next five years. This same anti-DEI proposal was also presented at Costco's annual meeting, but Costco rejected it as well. Companies are viewing diversity policies as critical to their business success.
Stephen Padfield, a spokesperson for the National Center for Public Policy Research, stated that “forced diversity is not good for business.” He suggested that Apple should change its DEI policies in line with court rulings, warning that DEI programs could lead to legal issues in the future.
Florida Attorney General James Utmeier recently filed a federal lawsuit against Target, accusing the retailer of making poor decisions and alienating customers due to its DEI policies. Analysts believe Apple may also need to make legal changes. Apple CEO Tim Cook emphasized that the company wants to maintain its culture but acknowledged that adjustments to DEI programs may be necessary based on legal changes.
According to Apple’s last DEI report released in 2022, one-third of its employees are white or Asian, with nearly two-thirds being male. This trend is seen in other tech companies as well. While some companies are making efforts to increase diversity in the tech industry, others are indicating that they may scale back their DEI programs. For more updates on business news, visit Vaartha's Business section.
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