EEOC Says Nike Complied With Subpoena, Drops Lawsuit

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has announced it has dropped its lawsuit against Nike, alleging the company's discriminatory practices against white employees. According to the commission's filing, Nike has complied with a subpoena requesting information on the racial and ethnic composition of its workforce and a list of employees selected for mentorship and development programs.

The EEOC had alleged that Nike intentionally discriminated against white employees and job applicants, possibly by disproportionately targeting them for layoffs. U.S. District Judge Cristian Stevens in St. Louis, Missouri, granted the EEOC's motion to dismiss the lawsuit on Thursday. The decision does not signify the end of the investigation, and Nike and the EEOC have not yet commented on the matter.

The probe is part of broader efforts by President Donald Trump and his administration to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies in government, private sector, and higher education institutions. Critics argue that these programs can lead to reverse discrimination against white people and men, while supporters claim they promote opportunities for historically disadvantaged groups and enhance corporate governance.

EEOC Chair Andrea Lucas, appointed by Trump in 2020, has stated that many common workplace diversity initiatives might be unlawful and could potentially result in lawsuits for violating anti-discrimination laws.