Apple shareholders have rejected a proposal to eliminate the company’s diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, defying pressure from former US President Donald Trump. The vote took place at Apple’s annual shareholder meeting, where a majority voted against the proposal put forth by the National Center for Public Policy Research (NCPPR), a conservative think tank.
Trump, via his social media platform Truth Social, had urged Apple to “get rid of” its DEI initiatives, calling them a “hoax” detrimental to the country. This call to action followed a broader trend of conservative activists pushing back against DEI programs in corporate America. He has vowed to publicly criticize companies that maintain such programs and signed an executive order aimed at curbing what he terms “illegal private-sector DEI preferences.” The former president has also targeted funding for companies with DEI initiatives and sought to remove them from the US government.
Despite this pressure, Apple CEO Tim Cook affirmed the company’s commitment to DEI. While acknowledging potential adjustments to comply with evolving regulations, Cook emphasized that Apple’s core values of “dignity and respect for everyone” remain unwavering. He reiterated the company’s dedication to fostering an inclusive work environment. This stance contrasts with recent actions by other tech giants like Meta, Amazon, Google, and Microsoft, which have scaled back their DEI programs amid political pressure and changing legal landscapes. For example, Google cited the Trump administration’s new rules for federal contractors as a contributing factor to its decision to cancel certain DEI programs. Meta also dismantled its DEI schemes just before Trump’s departure from office, attributing the decision to shifting legal and policy environments.
The NCPPR resolution specifically criticized Apple’s supplier diversity program, the position of vice president of inclusion and diversity, and financial support for organizations promoting DEI initiatives. The NCPPR argued that such programs expose companies to legal, reputational, and financial risks, thereby jeopardizing shareholder value and potentially breaching fiduciary duties. This argument reflects a broader concern among some that DEI initiatives prioritize social goals over shareholder returns.
In conclusion, Apple’s rejection of the proposal to dismantle its DEI programs signals a significant stand against growing political and social pressure. The company’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment, even in the face of potential regulatory changes and external criticism, underscores its belief in the importance of DEI. While other tech companies have retreated from such initiatives, Apple’s decision sets it apart and potentially positions it as a leader in corporate diversity efforts.
