Nike Under Fire for Alleged Discrimination Against White Workers
In a shocking move, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has launched an investigation into Nike, one of the world's largest athletic apparel manufacturers, over allegations that it discriminates against white workers.Allegations of Discrimination
The EEOC alleges that Nike may have engaged in a pattern or practice of disparate treatment against white employees, applicants, and training program participants with respect to hiring, promotion, workplace development, and layoffs. This means that the company may be favoring certain groups over others based on their racial background.
Nike's Response
A Nike spokesperson has responded to the allegations by stating that the company is committed to fair and lawful employment practices and follows all applicable laws, including those that prohibit discrimination. They claim that their programs and practices are consistent with these obligations and take these matters seriously.
EEOC's Investigation
The EEOC has filed a subpoena enforcement action in federal court in Missouri, seeking information from Nike dating back to 2018. This includes the criteria used to select employees for layoffs and how the company tracks workers' race and ethnicity data. The agency is looking into allegations of discrimination tied to Nike's diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) objectives for 2025.
Background on EEOC
The EEOC was created under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits employment discrimination. The agency has a long history of enforcing laws against workplace discrimination and promoting equal opportunities for all employees.
This investigation highlights the ongoing issue of workplace discrimination and the need for companies to prioritize fairness and equality in their hiring practices. As the EEOC continues its probe, Nike will be under intense scrutiny to prove that it is committed to treating all employees equally, regardless of their racial background.
