By Pamela Cruz. Peninsula 360 Press. [P360P]
Apple on Tuesday announced a set of major new projects as part of its $100 million racial equity and justice initiative (REJI) to help dismantle systemic barriers to opportunity and combat the injustices faced by communities of color.
In a statement, the Cupertino-based giant said those comprehensive and forward-thinking efforts include the Propel Center, a one-of-a-kind global learning and innovation center for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
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're launching the latest REJI initiatives with partners from a wide 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."
Tim Cook, Apple CEO
In June 2020, Apple announced REJI in the wake of the "Black Lives Matter" protests around the world following the murders of Breonna Taylor, George Floyd and many others. The initiative builds on the tech company's work to promote racial equity 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.
"All people deserve 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 think tank 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 build new engines of opportunity that empower, inspire, and create meaningful change."
Lisa Jackson, Apple's vice president of Environment, Policy, and Social Initiatives.
Notably, the Propel Center will offer a wide range of educational careers, including artificial intelligence and machine learning, agricultural technologies, social justice, entertainment arts, app development, augmented reality, design and creative arts, and career readiness, among others.
Apple experts will help develop curricula and provide ongoing mentoring and learning support, as well as offer internship opportunities.
