The US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has launched an investigation into the US company Nike over allegations of discrimination against white employees. This was stated in a statement published on the agency's website on February 4.
The commission has received complaints alleging systematic “racial discrimination“ against white employees at Nike. In response, the commission, through a federal district court in the US state of Missouri, has asked the company to provide a report on how it considers the race and ethnicity of its employees, including in making decisions about their dismissal, promotion and various benefits. Nike is a major manufacturer of athletic apparel and footwear.
Commission Chairwoman Andrea Lucas said there was “compelling evidence” that the company’s “diversity, equity and inclusion programs may violate federal laws against racial discrimination.” Lucas said a “thorough investigation” would be conducted.
The federal commission is responsible for ensuring that U.S. employers comply with laws prohibiting discrimination in employment on any basis.