U.S. President Donald Trump has urged Apple Inc. to abandon its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies, following a significant vote by shareholders to retain these initiatives amidst conservative backlash. The call comes after the company's annual meeting where shareholders predominantly supported the continuation of DEI policies, which have been a focal point for many major corporations since 2020's social justice movements, including Black Lives Matter.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated, “APPLE SHOULD GET RID OF DEI RULES, NOT JUST MAKE ADJUSTMENTS TO THEM. DEI WAS A HOAX THAT HAS BEEN VERY BAD FOR OUR COUNTRY. DEI IS GONE!!!” This statement reflects a broader critique he has made against corporate DEI programs, branding them as discriminatory and harmful.

Trump's comments come in the wake of an executive order he issued in January aimed at eradicating DEI initiatives within the federal government and in private entities, claiming such efforts marginalize certain groups. During the shareholder meeting, Apple’s CEO Tim Cook affirmed the company's commitment to diversity, stating, “Our strength has always come from hiring the very best people and then providing a culture of collaboration.” Cook expressed that while Apple does not have fixed quotas, it continues to prioritize an inclusive workforce.

The proposal to abolish DEI initiatives was submitted by the National Center for Public Policy Research, a conservative think tank which described these programs as “dangerous, demeaning and immoral.” Despite the push, shareholders recognized Apple's proactive approach to diversity and inclusion, with Cook assuring that their core values of “dignity and respect for everyone” would remain steadfast amidst any potential legal shifts regarding DEI policies.

As companies navigate increasingly polarized political environments, the future of DEI initiatives remains fraught with challenges, raising questions about corporate responsibility and societal impact. For more details, visit Channel News Asia, Reuters, and Salon.