Share This Article
Apple has made a significant announcement, revealing a further $25 million investment in its initiative to support minority businesses. This brings the total investment for Apple’s Racial Equity and Justice Initiative (REJI) to twice the originally planned $100 million. Launched in June 2020, REJI focuses on supporting education and justice reform, initially concentrating its efforts in the United States. However, it has now expanded its reach to include Mexico, Australia, and the United Kingdom.
Lisa Jackson, Apple’s vice president of Environment, Policy, and Social Initiatives, expressed the company’s commitment to promoting equitable opportunities for Black and Brown communities worldwide. “We launched REJI at a critical inflection point for our country,” she stated, highlighting Apple’s determination to continue building upon the progress made thus far.
Apple’s CEO, Tim Cook, emphasized the urgency of creating a more just and equitable world, stressing the need for collaboration, commitment, and a shared sense of purpose. Cook expressed pride in partnering with extraordinary organizations dedicated to addressing injustice and eliminating barriers to opportunity. “And we’ll continue to lead with our values,” he added, highlighting Apple’s ongoing efforts to create opportunities, uplift communities, and contribute to a better future for all.
In addition to surpassing the $200 million mark, Apple also announced significant new partnerships with various organizations aligned with its goals. One notable collaboration is with the My Brother’s Keeper Alliance (MBKA), a program initiated by the Obama Foundation. This partnership aims to train over 500 leaders and engage more than 50,000 boys and young men of color.
Valerie Jarrett, CEO of the Obama Foundation, expressed gratitude for Apple’s continued support, emphasizing how it empowers the foundation to develop and implement new initiatives that create opportunities for young people. “Together, we are building a more inclusive education system that nurtures creativity, fosters innovation, and transforms the lives of boys and young men of color across the country,” Jarrett stated. She also conveyed excitement about the ongoing collective efforts to ensure that all youth can achieve their full potential.
In addition to the partnership with MBKA, Apple has committed an additional $25 million to three venture capital funds: Collab Capital, Harlem Capital, and VamosVentures. These funds specifically work with minority-owned businesses, further demonstrating Apple’s dedication to fostering entrepreneurship within underrepresented communities.
Related articles
- Apple TV+ Show ‘Monarch: Legacy of Monsters’ to Offer Unprecedented 3D Experience with Vision Pro Headset
- Which iPads Are Compatible with iPadOS 17?
As part of its commitment to transparency and accountability, Apple unveiled a new report, the first-ever REJI Impact Overview. The report showcases the various projects and initiatives supported by REJI, offering insights into the program’s progress and impact.
Apple’s increased investment in REJI and its expanded partnerships highlight the company’s unwavering commitment to addressing racial inequality and promoting equity in education and justice systems. Through its continued efforts, Apple strives to create a more inclusive and just society, where opportunities are accessible to all, irrespective of race or background.