US Labor Agency Cracks Down on Nike Allegations of Discrimination Against White Workers
The US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has initiated an investigation into Nike, alleging that the sports giant discriminated against white employees and job applicants. The agency is seeking detailed information from Nike, including its diversity, equity, and inclusion-related objectives and programs.
Nike has described the move as "surprising and unusual," maintaining that it adheres to all applicable laws on discrimination. However, the company's actions come at a time when there is a broader crackdown by President Donald Trump's administration on diversity initiatives, which he has repeatedly criticized as "radical."
The EEOC chair, Andrea Lucas, stated that the agency will take necessary steps, including subpoena enforcement actions, to ensure a thorough investigation into the allegations. The federal agency is responsible for enforcing laws that prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetic information.
Lucas emphasized that Title VII's prohibition of race-based employment discrimination requires the EEOC to protect employees of all races from unlawful practices. Her appointment by President Trump in 2025 has been seen as a targeted move to undo diversity initiatives and programs implemented during the Biden administration.
The investigation seeks information dating back to 2018, including criteria used for layoffs, worker data tracking, and details about programs with "race-restricted" mentoring or career development opportunities. Nike's response to the EEOC inquiry has been described as "good-faith participation," but the company is still providing additional information.
As part of a broader effort by Trump's administration to undermine diversity initiatives, Lucas has expressed her commitment to enforcing federal civil rights laws and maintaining an evenhanded approach. The investigation into Nike is another example of this agenda in action.
The US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has initiated an investigation into Nike, alleging that the sports giant discriminated against white employees and job applicants. The agency is seeking detailed information from Nike, including its diversity, equity, and inclusion-related objectives and programs.
Nike has described the move as "surprising and unusual," maintaining that it adheres to all applicable laws on discrimination. However, the company's actions come at a time when there is a broader crackdown by President Donald Trump's administration on diversity initiatives, which he has repeatedly criticized as "radical."
The EEOC chair, Andrea Lucas, stated that the agency will take necessary steps, including subpoena enforcement actions, to ensure a thorough investigation into the allegations. The federal agency is responsible for enforcing laws that prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetic information.
Lucas emphasized that Title VII's prohibition of race-based employment discrimination requires the EEOC to protect employees of all races from unlawful practices. Her appointment by President Trump in 2025 has been seen as a targeted move to undo diversity initiatives and programs implemented during the Biden administration.
The investigation seeks information dating back to 2018, including criteria used for layoffs, worker data tracking, and details about programs with "race-restricted" mentoring or career development opportunities. Nike's response to the EEOC inquiry has been described as "good-faith participation," but the company is still providing additional information.
As part of a broader effort by Trump's administration to undermine diversity initiatives, Lucas has expressed her commitment to enforcing federal civil rights laws and maintaining an evenhanded approach. The investigation into Nike is another example of this agenda in action.