Apple Launches Major New Projects To Challenge Systemic Racism

Apple has announced new Racial Equality and Justice Initiative projects in an attempt to tackle systemic racism, advance racial equity across the US.

Apple has announced it will be opening an Apple Developer Academy in Detroit, Michigan and an educational centre in Atlanta, Georgia called The Propel Centre.

The Propel Centre will work with historically black colleges and universities (HBCU) as well as having a physical campus at Atlanta University Centre.

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The new projects will form part of the tech companies $100 million Racial Equity and Justice Initiative (REJI) pledge made last year.

Apple CEO Tim Cook said: "We are all accountable to the urgent work of building a more just, more equitable world - and these new projects send a clear signal of Apple's enduring commitment.

"We're launching REJI's latest initiatives with partners across a broad range of industries and backgrounds - from students to teachers, developers to entrepreneurs, and community organisers to justice advocates - working together to empower communities that have borne the brunt of racism and discrimination for far too long.

"We are honoured to help bring this vision to bear, and to match our words and actions to the values of equity and inclusion we have always prized at Apple."

According to Apple, the centre is ''designed to support the next generation of diverse leaders, providing innovative curricula, technology support, career opportunities, and fellowship programs'.

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Apple will also be offering 100 scholarships from those who come from 'underrepresented communities'.

Apple's vice president of Environment, Policy and Social Initiatives, Lisa Jackson added: "Every individual deserves equal access to opportunity regardless of skin colour or zip code.

"For too long, communities of colour have faced gross injustices and institutional barriers to their pursuit of the American dream, and we are proud to lend our voices and resources to build new engines of opportunity that empower, inspire, and create meaningful change."

Topics: Technology, Apple

Claire Reid

Claire is a journalist at LADbible who, after dossing around for a few years, went to Liverpool John Moores University. She graduated with a degree in Journalism and a whole load of debt. When not writing words in exchange for money she is usually at home watching serial killer documentaries surrounded by cats. You can contact Claire at [email protected]

@ClaireReid19