SouthernWorldwide.com – The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has initiated an investigation into Nike, following allegations that the sportswear giant has discriminated against its White employees. This development marks a significant move by the federal agency, which is tasked with enforcing laws against workplace discrimination.
The EEOC’s inquiry centers on claims that Nike may have engaged in a “pattern or practice of disparate treatment against White employees, applicants and training program participants.” These alleged discriminatory practices reportedly span across various aspects of employment, including hiring, promotions, workplace development, and layoffs.
A Nike spokesperson described the EEOC’s investigation as a “surprising and unusual escalation.” The company stated that it has been providing information to the agency in an effort to engage constructively. Nike reiterated its commitment to fair and lawful employment practices, asserting that its programs and policies are consistent with all applicable anti-discrimination laws.
The company further indicated that it takes these allegations seriously and will continue to cooperate with the EEOC. Nike plans to respond to the petition filed by the agency.
The EEOC has filed a subpoena enforcement action in federal court in Missouri. This legal action stems from Nike’s alleged failure to provide requested information. The agency is reportedly investigating discrimination claims linked to Nike’s diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) objectives for 2025.
Specifically, the EEOC has sought information from Nike dating back to 2018. This includes details on the criteria used by the company for selecting employees for layoffs. The agency also requested information on how Nike tracks its employees’ race and ethnicity data.
The EEOC was established under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This landmark legislation prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.
Andrea Lucas, who was nominated as chair of the EEOC by President Trump in November 2025, commented on the agency’s renewed focus. She stated that the EEOC has recommitted to the evenhanded enforcement of Title VII, aligning with President Trump’s commitment to civil rights laws.
This investigation into Nike is part of a broader trend of scrutiny directed at DEI programs. The U.S. Department of Justice, under the Trump administration, has also launched several probes into organizations and state governments that have implemented DEI initiatives.
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Sources within the DOJ previously indicated to CBS News that the department’s focus has shifted towards protecting White individuals from alleged “reverse discrimination.” A DOJ spokesperson defended these probes, asserting that certain DEI initiatives have resulted in “blatant, widespread race and sex discrimination in violation of federal law.”
