To Pamela Cruz. Peninsula 360 Press. [P360P]
Apple announced on Tuesday a set of major new projects as part of its Racial Justice and Equity Initiative (RJI), which will have a $100 million budget to help dismantle systemic barriers to opportunity and combat injustices faced by communities of color.
In a statement, Cupertino's giant pointed out that these comprehensive and forward-looking efforts include the Propel Center, a unique global learning and innovation center for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU).
In addition, an Apple Developer Academy to support technology and coding education for students in Detroit; and venture capital funding for entrepreneurs of color and African descent.
Together, Apple's REJI commitments aim to expand opportunities for communities of color across the country and help build the next generation of diverse leaders.
"We are all responsible for the urgent work of building a more just and equitable world, and these new projects send a clear signal of Apple's enduring commitment. We are launching REJI's latest initiatives with partners from a wide range of industries and backgrounds, from students to teachers, developers and entrepreneurs, and community organizers to advocates for justice, working together to empower communities that have endured the worst of racism and discrimination for far too long.
Tim Cook, Apple CEO
In June 2020, Apple announced REJI in the wake of "Black Lives Matter" protests around the world following the murders of Breonna Taylor, George Floyd and many others. The initiative builds on Apple's work to promote racial equality in education, the economy and the criminal justice system, and is led by Apple's Vice President of Environment, Policy and Social Initiatives, Lisa Jackson.
"Everyone deserves equal access to opportunity regardless of skin color or zip code."
Lisa Jackson, Apple's Vice President of Environment, Policy and Social Initiatives
Apple's $25 million contribution will enable the Propel Center to support HBCU students and faculty through a robust virtual platform, a physical campus in the historic Atlanta University Center, as well as on-campus activations at partner institutions.
The center of studies is designed to support the next generation of diverse leaders by providing innovative curricula, technology support, career opportunities and scholarship programs.
"For too long, communities of color have faced grave injustices and institutional barriers in their pursuit of the American dream, and we are proud to lend our voices and resources to building new engines of opportunity that empower, inspire and create meaningful change.
Lisa Jackson, Apple's Vice President of Environment, Policy and Social Initiatives
Importantly, the Propel Center will offer a wide range of educational careers, including artificial intelligence and machine learning, agricultural technologies, social justice, entertainment arts, application development, augmented reality, design and creative arts, and career coaching, among others.
Apple experts will help develop curricula and provide ongoing tutoring and learning support, as well as offer internship opportunities.
