While Apple is not without its flaws, the company has taken a positive step compared to its peers in the tech industry. According to a report by Reuters, the company’s shareholders have voted to retain its diversity, equity, and inclusion policies, despite a proposal by the National Center for Public Policy Research (NCPPR) to abolish them. Apple is far from perfect, but this decision sets it apart from other tech giants.

The proposal, Request to Cease DEI Efforts, was met with significant resistance, garnering only 210.45 million votes in favor, compared to 8.84 billion votes against, which accounts for approximately 2.3 percent of the total vote. Many diversity, equity, and inclusion programs were implemented or expanded in response to the Black Lives Matter movement in 2020. However, following criticism from President Trump and concerns about potential legal violations, companies such as Meta and Google have reduced or eliminated these programs. Proponents of the Apple proposal argued that maintaining current policies could increase the risk of discrimination cases.

During the meeting, Apple CEO Tim Cook emphasized the importance of a diverse and collaborative work environment, stating that “strength has always come from hiring the very best people and then providing a culture of collaboration, one where people with diverse backgrounds and perspectives come together to innovate.”

Although Apple’s decision to retain its diversity, equity, and inclusion policies is a positive step, it is essential to note that the company still has room for improvement. Previously, its shareholders rejected proposals for greater transparency regarding racial and gender gaps, as well as a measure to further investigate the risks associated with its AI efforts.

Additionally, Cook has been criticized for his efforts to appease Trump, including a reported meeting between the two last week and Apple’s announcement of $500 billion in US-based spending over the next four years. Furthermore, Cook donated $1 million to Trump’s inauguration and attended the event alongside other prominent tech executives, including Mark Zuckerberg and Jeff Bezos.