EEOC Seeks Court Order for Nike Subpoena in Race Bias Probe

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission filed a motion in federal court in St. Louis on Wednesday to compel Nike Inc. to comply with a subpoena as part of an ongoing investigation into allegations that the athletic apparel company discriminated against white employees and job applicants.

The probe centers on claims that Nike engaged in a pattern or practice of race-based disparate treatment, violating Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. According to court documents, the allegations involve decisions on hiring, promotions, demotions, separations, layoffs, internship programs, mentoring, leadership development, and other career advancement opportunities. The EEOC specifically cited Nike's diversity, equity, and inclusion policies, including workforce representation targets and objectives outlined in its 2025 plans, as potential sources of the discrimination. The agency is seeking documents dating back to 2018, including details on 16 race-restricted mentoring and development programs.

The discrimination charge, numbered 551-2024-04996, was issued on May 24, 2024, by Andrea R. Lucas, then a commissioner at the EEOC and now its chair. Lucas based the charge on...