Apple agrees to $25 million settlement with US over hiring of immigrants
Apple has agreed to a $25 million settlement with the US over the hiring of immigrants.
Apple Inc., one of the world's largest and most valuable companies, has agreed to pay a $25 million settlement with the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) over allegations that the company discriminated against immigrants in its hiring practices.
The settlement, which was announced on November 9, 2023, resolves a two-year investigation by the DOJ's Civil Rights Division. The DOJ alleged that Apple violated the Immigration and Nationality Act by requiring U.S. citizenship or permanent residency for certain jobs that were eligible for a federal program allowing employers to sponsor immigrant workers for green cards.
The DOJ also alleged that Apple created a hostile work environment for non-immigrant employees. For example, the DOJ alleged that Apple managers made disparaging remarks about immigrants and that the company subjected non-immigrant employees to more scrutiny than U.S. citizen and permanent resident employees.
Apple has denied any wrongdoing, but the company has agreed to pay the settlement to avoid further litigation.
The settlement is the largest ever for the DOJ involving claims of discrimination based on citizenship. It is also the first settlement under the Trump administration's "Hire American" initiative.
The settlement is a significant victory for immigrant rights advocates. It sends a strong message to employers that they cannot discriminate against immigrants in their hiring practices.
The settlement is also a reminder that even the largest and most powerful companies are not above the law.
Impact of the settlement
The settlement is likely to have a significant impact on the way that Apple and other employers hire immigrants.
Under the terms of the settlement, Apple must review its hiring practices to ensure that it is not discriminating against immigrants. Apple must also provide training to its managers on immigration law and anti-discrimination laws.
The settlement also requires Apple to pay restitution to immigrants who were discriminated against. The amount of restitution will be determined by the DOJ.
The settlement is also likely to have a ripple effect on other employers. Employers are now more likely to be aware of the risks of discriminating against immigrants in their hiring practices.
Implications for the future
The settlement is a positive development for immigrants' rights. It shows that the government is committed to enforcing laws that protect immigrants from discrimination.
The settlement is also a reminder that employers cannot discriminate against immigrants in their hiring practices. Employers who discriminate against immigrants may face significant legal and financial penalties.
The settlement is also a sign of the growing power of immigrants in the United States. Immigrants are increasingly speaking out against discrimination and demanding their rights.
The settlement is a victory for immigrants and their allies. It is a step towards a more just and inclusive society.