The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has charged Apple with infringing upon workers’ rights to organize for improved working conditions. This allegation stems from the company’s restrictions on employees’ use of social media and the workplace messaging application, Slack, which were detailed by the agency on Friday.
In a complaint filed on Thursday, the NLRB contends that Apple has enforced unlawful rules regarding Slack’s usage, wrongfully terminated an employee who sought workplace improvements on the platform, compelled another worker to remove a social media post, and fostered an environment in which employees felt they were being monitored through social media activities.
This marks the second complaint against Apple by the NLRB within the month. Previously, the agency accused the tech giant of mandating that employees across the country sign unlawful confidentiality, nondisclosure, and noncompete agreements, in addition to imposing excessively broad policies concerning misconduct and social media usage.
In a statement provided on Friday, Apple emphasized its dedication to fostering a “positive and inclusive workplace” and expressed that it takes employee concerns seriously.
“We strongly disagree with these claims and will continue to share the facts at the hearing,” the spokesperson for Apple reiterated.
In reaction to the earlier complaint, Apple denied any wrongdoing, asserting that it respects employees’ rights to discuss topics such as wages, hours, and working conditions.
Should Apple choose not to reach a settlement with the NLRB, an administrative judge will conduct an initial hearing regarding the case in February. The judge’s determination will be subject to review by the five-member labor board, and its decisions can be appealed through the federal court system.
This current complaint arises from a case brought to the NLRB nearly three years ago by Janneke Parrish, who alleges that her termination in 2021 was a consequence of her active participation in employee advocacy.
Parrish utilized Slack and various public social media platforms to campaign for permanent remote work, shared a pay equity survey, reported instances of alleged gender and racial discrimination at Apple, and published open letters critiquing the company, as asserted in the recent complaint.
Slack, which allows employees to engage in group discussions, has been increasingly utilized at Apple since its launch several years ago, gaining popularity particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The NLRB’s complaint claims that Apple maintains a policy that prohibits employees from creating new Slack channels without managerial approval, further stating that any posts regarding workplace matters must be funneled through a manager or the “People Support” group.
Laurie Burgess, Parrish’s attorney, expressed to reporters that Apple had committed “extensive violations” of workers’ rights.
“We look forward to holding Apple accountable at trial for enforcing rules that are overtly unlawful and terminating employees for participating in fundamental protected activities like speaking out against gender discrimination and other civil rights violations that exist within the workplace,” Burgess stated.
The complaint seeks an order demanding Apple rescind its alleged illegal policies and provide compensation to Parrish for her lost income and other financial repercussions stemming from her termination.
© Thomson Reuters 2024
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