Apple backs its diversity policies, calling anti-DEI proposal ‘restricting’

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🗞️ Driving the news: Apple has urged shareholders to vote against a proposal by the National Center for Public Policy Research (NCPPR) to reconsider its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives
• Apple defended its DEI policies, calling the proposal an attempt to "restrict" and "micromanage" operations
• The proposal will be discussed at Apple’s annual shareholder meeting on February 25

🔭 The context: Apple has a long-standing commitment to diversity, with initiatives dating back to its supplier diversity program in 1993
• Other companies, including Meta and Walmart, have scaled back DEI commitments under pressure, reflecting growing political and legal scrutiny of such initiatives
• The NCPPR argues DEI policies pose risks such as litigation and divisiveness, claiming Apple could face significant financial liabilities

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: DEI initiatives foster inclusion and representation in corporate practices, positively impacting workplace culture and equity
• Rolling back DEI programs may weaken progress toward greater diversity and social equity in global industries

⏭️ What's next: Apple's shareholder meeting in February will be pivotal in determining the future of its DEI initiatives
• The broader corporate trend of reevaluating DEI programs under political and legal scrutiny is likely to intensify

💬 One quote: “At Apple, we believe that how we conduct ourselves is as critical to Apple’s success as making the best products in the world.” – Apple proxy statement

📈 One stat: Apple supports 67 employee diversity network associations, the first established in 1986

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