Apple Inc. has urged investors to reject a shareholder proposal to eliminate its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs, a move that contrasts with recent trends among major U.S. corporations.
In a January 10 SEC filing, Apple disclosed that the National Centre for Public Policy Research is pushing for the company to abandon its DEI initiatives. The group cited recent legal challenges and shifts in corporate attitudes toward such programs as justification.
The filing noted several companies, including Alphabet, Meta, Amazon, Microsoft, and others, have scaled back DEI efforts in response to legal risks and shareholder concerns. Apple acknowledged that DEI initiatives carry litigation and financial risks but stood firm in defending its approach.
The board argued that its “well-established compliance program” and robust oversight mechanisms make the proposed changes unnecessary. It expressed concern that adopting the proposal could disrupt management and hinder the company’s strategies.
“The proposal inappropriately seeks to micromanage the company’s programs and policies,” the board stated.
