Apple CEO Tim Cook Says Diversity Programs Might Change Amid US Legal Shifts
According to a BBC report, Apple’s CEO Tim Cook has hinted that the company might need to adjust its diversity and inclusion programs as US laws change.
This comes after Apple shareholders voted against a proposal to end its diversity policies, like considering race and gender in hiring. Apple had asked shareholders to reject the proposal, saying it was an unnecessary attempt to control how the company runs its business.
The BBC explains that this debate is happening as former US President Donald Trump has pushed to stop diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in both government and private companies.
While Trump’s efforts have faced legal challenges, many big companies like Meta, Amazon, and Goldman Sachs have already scaled back their DEI policies due to legal concerns. Apple, however, stood out by opposing the shareholder proposal to end its diversity efforts.
During Apple’s annual shareholder meeting, Tim Cook acknowledged that the company might have to make some changes to follow new laws. But he stressed that Apple’s core values of treating everyone with dignity and respect won’t change. Cook also clarified that Apple doesn’t use hiring quotas, which have been heavily criticized. He said the company’s success comes from bringing together people with different backgrounds and perspectives.
The BBC notes that the proposal to end Apple’s DEI policies was supported by a conservative group called the National Center for Public Policy Research. They argued that diversity programs could lead to lawsuits and financial risks for Apple, especially as other companies are stepping back from such policies.
Despite the shareholder vote, Cook’s comments suggest Apple is open to adjusting its practices while staying committed to diversity. Angela Jackson, a Harvard University advisor, told the BBC that Apple’s approach might please both sides of the debate. However, she warned that Apple is now in a defensive position and could do more to show how diversity benefits the business.
The BBC also highlights that this debate over DEI in the US raises questions about whether similar policies in other countries might face challenges.
Catherine Howarth of ShareAction, a responsible investment charity, told the BBC that Apple likely decided standing by its diversity programs was worth the risk, as abandoning them could upset customers and employees worldwide.
In addition to the DEI vote, shareholders rejected proposals asking Apple to report on its AI privacy practices, charitable donations, and efforts to fight child abuse. They also approved the company’s board members and executive pay, including Tim Cook’s $74 million package.
This story, based on BBC reporting, shows how Apple is navigating a tricky balance between staying true to its values and adapting to a changing legal and political environment.
Credit : BBC
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/clyjv8e49deo