US agency investigates Nike over alleged discrimination against white workers

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission announced Wednesday that it is investigating Nike over allegations the athletic apparel manufacturer discriminated against white workers through its diversity initiatives.

The EEOC, the federal agency that enforces workplace discrimination laws, filed court documents stating it is examining claims Nike engaged "in a pattern or practice of disparate treatment against white employees, applicants, and training program participants" with respect to hiring, promotion, workplace development and layoffs.

The agency has demanded Nike provide company records dating back to 2018, including data on the racial and ethnic composition of its workforce, information on employees selected for mentorship and development programs, and whether race and ethnicity data influenced executive compensation decisions. The EEOC also requested Nike's "Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion-related 2025 Targets and other DEI-related objectives."

According to the EEOC, Nike refused to comply with a broad subpoena seeking this information. The agency stated it needs the data to determine whether Nike violated federal anti-discrimination legislation.

Nike responded to the investigation in a statement, calling it "a surprising and unusual escalation." The company said it is "committed to fair and lawful employment practices" and follows "all applicable laws, including those that prohibit discrimination." Nike added that it believes "our programs and practices are consistent with those obligations and take these matters seriously."

A Nike spokesperson said the company has provided information to the agency in an effort to "engage constructively" with the EEOC and indicated it will continue attempting to cooperate with the investigation.