EEOC Drops Subpoena Enforcement Action Against Nike

A federal court judge in Missouri dismissed a subpoena enforcement action filed by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) against Nike Inc. last Thursday. The EEOC had requested the action following its investigation into Nike's diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies. Judge Cristian Stevens granted the EEOC's request because Nike had complied with the documentation sought during the subpoena.

The dismissal does not mean the EEOC's probe is over; the agency has not provided further details on the matter. Nike declined to comment on the decision. The EEOC's investigation began on May 24, 2024, over allegations of intentional race discrimination against White employees and job applicants. At that time, a Nike spokesperson stated the company had provided extensive information and engaged constructively with the EEOC.