Shareholder Proposal to Abolish DEI Rejected
"We Will Uphold Our Core Values"
Apple, the iPhone manufacturer, has decided to maintain its DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) program in hiring and other areas.
On the 25th (local time), Apple rejected a proposal to abolish the DEI program put forward by the National Center for Public Policy Research (NCPPR) at its annual shareholders' meeting.
This contrasts with other big tech companies and financial firms such as Citigroup and Wells Fargo, which have been stepping back from DEI policies following the start of Donald Trump's second term administration.
The conservative think tank NCPPR argued for abolition, claiming that diversity programs can lead to discrimination and that Apple could suffer financially if it complies with such regulations. Steven Padfield, Secretary General of NCPPR, stated, "President Trump recently instructed the Department of Justice to eradicate illegal discrimination carried out under the name of DEI," adding, "Pursuing such divisive and value-destroying agendas only increases the risks Apple must bear." He also pointed out, "The social atmosphere is changing. DEI is going away, and meritocracy is coming."
However, Apple responded that the proposal to abolish DEI interferes with its management approach, stating, "Apple does not discriminate in hiring, employment, training, or promotion based on legally protected criteria."
Apple CEO Tim Cook said, "Our strength has always come from hiring the best talent and fostering a collaborative culture where people from diverse backgrounds and perspectives innovate together to create something magical for users."
He continued, "Thanks to our unique culture, we can create the world's best products and services," emphasizing, "Our unwavering principle of respecting everyone without discrimination and our efforts to realize this will never waver."
However, CEO Cook mentioned, "Policy adjustments related to DEI may be necessary depending on changes in the legal environment."
At the shareholders' meeting that day, shareholders approved agenda items regarding board members, auditors, and increases in executive compensation.
This included CEO Cook's annual compensation. He received $74.6 million last year, an 18% increase from the previous year, including salary, stock compensation, and bonuses.
Apple also announced plans to increase dividends annually and said it would notify investors of this year's increase in May.
Regarding the $500 billion U.S. investment plan announced on the 24th, CEO Cook remarked, "The United States is our home, and we are working for the country's future."
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