Why is Apple's DEI Policy Under Fire From Activists?

Tech giant Apple has presented a firm stance to its investors, advising them to vote against a proposal demanding the cessation of its diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) programme.

Apple's recommitment to its DE&I policies comes after the National Center for Public Policy Research (NCPPR), a conservative lobbying group, began applying pressure to the company.

DE&I policies, the NCPPR argues, might lead to “litigation, reputational and financial risks”.

In contrast, Apple's board believes the proposal to eliminate these programs is unnecessary, asserting the company has robust mechanisms in place to handle such issues.

"The proposal is unnecessary as Apple already has a well-established compliance programme," Apple's retort to the NCPPR says.

In its response, Apple says the NCPPR proposal is overreaching.

"The proposal also inappropriately attempts to restrict Apple's ability to manage its own ordinary business operations, people, teams and business strategies," Apple says.

How political landscapes affect corporate policies

The timing of these developments is critical as it parallels the tech sector's broader anticipation of Donald Trump's forthcoming presidency.

Trump, a vocal critic of DE&I policies, may influence corporate strategies in the sector.

NCPPR reminds Apple that the recent Supreme Court decision against race-based affirmative action in colleges could set a precedent affecting corporate DE&I policies as well.

Moreover, other leading tech entities like Meta and Amazon appear to be rethinking their stance on DE&I programmes.

Amazon has already initiated scaling back its diversity-oriented initiatives, describing these programmes as “outdated”.

NCPPR pointed out to Apple that major companies such as Alphabet, Microsoft and Zoom have disbanded their DE&I teams, suggesting a broader industry trend.

In its defence, Apple reiterates the significance of its compliance programmes and opposes any move that might constrict its managerial freedom over its operations and strategic planning.

The company says: "At Apple, we believe that how we conduct ourselves is as critical to Apple's success as making the best products in the world."

Promoting workplace equality

With its response to the NCPPR, Apple is asserting its commitment to abide by non-discrimination laws applicable in the US and other countries where it operates.

The tech giant views the proposed limitations from NCPPR as an undue interference with its ability to effectively manage its own affairs.

Nevertheless, the NCPPR's proposal is set to be voted on by Apple's shareholders at the company's annual general meeting on 25 February, 2025.

In essence, DE&I frameworks are designed to ensure every employee, irrespective of background such as socio-economic status, race, gender or physical ability, receives equitable support and opportunities in the workplace.

In recent years, programmes such as these have become commonplace in the US, but all the while they have faced political and legal scrutiny.

Conservative groups have long threatened legal actions against companies over perceived contraventions of a Supreme Court ruling on affirmative action.

DE&I is the only corporate policy in the spotlight right now, either.

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg also announced the rolling back of the company's independent fact-checking service, which has operated on Facebook and Instagram for several years.

He suggested that third-party moderators were “too politically biased” — a comment which comes as he and other big tech execs seek to improve relations with US President-elect Donald Trump ahead of its inauguration on 20 January 2025.

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