As Apple continues its rapid growth in Austin, the tech giant says it is strengthening its national investments in education, technology and venture funding programs as part of a goal to combat injustice faced by communities of color.
The donations are part of a $100 million racial equity and justice Initiative, which is designed to help reduce barriers and opportunities for people of color across the country. The programs are the first the company has named as part of the initiative since it was first announced in June, as social justice protests erupted around the country.
“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,” Apple CEO Tim Cook said in a written statement. "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 organizers to justice advocates — working together to empower communities that have borne the brunt of racism and discrimination for far too long."