The US government is investigating Nike over claims of discrimination against white workers. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has demanded company records dating back to 2018, including race and ethnicity data, and how this influenced executive pay. Court documents reveal an examination of claims that Nike engaged in 'a pattern or practice of disparate treatment against white employees, applicants, and training program participants'. Nike, however, asserts its commitment to fair and lawful employment practices, describing the inquiry as 'surprising and unusual'. The company states that it adheres to all laws against discrimination and will cooperate with the EEOC's petition. This investigation comes amidst a broader context of the EEOC's focus on bias affecting minority groups and women, with the Trump administration's criticism of diversity initiatives as 'reverse discrimination'. The EEOC's subpoena request includes extensive information, such as personal details of employees considered for layoffs, and Nike's response has been met with criticism from some legal experts who view it as an attempt to discourage diversity efforts. The case raises questions about the scope of the EEOC's authority and the potential impact on corporate diversity policies.
