Apple fighting shareholders who want to end DEI hiring, asks investors to vote against proposal

Apple is gearing up for its 2025 shareholders’ meeting, set to take place on February 25, where the company will address a variety of regular business matters and shareholder proposals. However, one particular issue is stirring up controversy this year — diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) hiring policies. A group of shareholders, led by the National Center for Public Policy Research (NCPPR), has put forward a proposal that wants to see Apple abandon its DEI practices. As other major tech companies scale back on similar initiatives, Apple is standing firm in its commitment to maintaining diversity in its workforce.

The proposal has garnered attention not just because of its potential impact on Apple’s hiring practices, but also due to the broader trend within Big Tech. Companies like Meta have moved away from DEI efforts, citing concerns over financial risks and reputational damage. The NCPPR’s proposal, which argues that DEI policies expose firms to litigation and other risks, is part of this shift. Despite the pressure from shareholders, Apple has strongly pushed back, asking investors to vote against the proposal and reaffirm its commitment to diversity.

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Shareholders push for change

A group of shareholders from the National Center for Public Policy Research (NCPPR) has put forward a proposal urging Apple to drop its DEI policies. The group claims that these initiatives expose companies to potential litigation, damage to their reputation, and financial risks.

This move is part of a wider trend seen in Big Tech, with other companies like Meta scaling back or abandoning their DEI efforts. The NCPPR’s proposal has sparked a heated debate about the role of DEI in corporate strategy.

Apple stands firm on DEI policies

In response, Apple has made it clear that it intends to continue its commitment to diversity. The company sent a note to investors urging them to vote against the proposal, asserting that its DEI policies are a crucial part of its success.

Apple emphasised that fostering a culture of belonging is just as important as making the best products. The company believes that its DEI practices align with its core values, including creating an environment where everyone can thrive.

Apple also addressed the concerns raised about potential litigation linked to DEI policies. The company reassured investors that its compliance program is well-established and there is no need to close its DEI practices. Apple described the proposal as an unwarranted attempt to restrict its ability to operate as an equal-opportunity employer, which, it stressed, does not discriminate in any of its hiring, training, or promotion processes.

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A familiar stance from Apple

This isn’t the first time Apple has faced a shareholder proposal that challenged its values. Back in 2014, the same group of shareholders, NCPPR, urged Apple to justify its environmental and accessibility initiatives, questioning the financial return on investment.

At the time, Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO, famously responded by highlighting the importance of making products accessible to all, stating that the company didn’t think about ROI when helping people with disabilities. Now, with DEI policies under fire, Apple is once again standing firm on its commitment to inclusivity.