The U.S. National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has accused Apple of violating workers’ rights by limiting their ability to use social media and Slack to advocate for better working conditions. In a complaint issued on Thursday, the NLRB alleges that Apple maintained unlawful policies regarding the use of Slack, wrongfully terminated an employee for pushing for workplace reforms via the platform, demanded another worker delete a social media post, and fostered an environment where employees felt they were being monitored online.
This marks the second complaint against Apple from the NLRB this month. Just last week, the agency charged the tech giant with requiring employees across the country to sign illegal confidentiality, nondisclosure, and noncompete agreements, as well as enforcing overly restrictive misconduct and social media policies.
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Apple Responds
Apple has responded to this incident, wherein a spokesperson said, “We strongly disagree with these claims and will continue to share the facts at the hearing.” The spokesperson added that the company is committed to maintaining “a positive and inclusive workplace,” and it takes the complaints of employees seriously.
In response to last week’s complaint, Apple has denied any misconduct, stating that it respects its employees’ rights to discuss wages, working hours, and conditions.
If the company doesn’t reach a settlement with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), an administrative judge is scheduled to hear the case in February. The judge’s ruling can later be reviewed by the full five-member labor board, with further appeals possible in federal court. The latest case is tied to a complaint filed nearly three years ago by Janneke Parrish, who claims Apple terminated her in 2021 due to her involvement in employee activism.
Where Does It All Start From?
According to the NLRB’s complaint, Parrish used Slack and social media to advocate for permanent remote work, share a pay equity survey, outline alleged gender and racial discrimination at Apple, and publish open letters criticising the company.
Apple introduced Slack to its workforce a few years ago, and its use surged during the COVID-19 pandemic as a forum for employee discussions. However, according to the NLRB complaint, Apple enforces a policy that requires employees to get managerial approval before creating new Slack channels. The complaint also alleges that posts related to workplace concerns must be directed to a manager or the “People Support” team, limiting open dialogue.
Laurie Burgess, the lawyer representing Janneke Parrish, criticised Apple’s conduct, stating via email that the company has committed “extensive violations” of workers’ rights.
Burgess said, “We look forward to holding Apple accountable at trial for implementing facially unlawful rules and terminating employees for engaging in the core protected activity of calling out gender discrimination and other civil rights violations that permeated the workplace.”
The complaint requests an order compelling Apple to revoke its reportedly unlawful policies and compensate Parrish for lost wages and any other financial consequences resulting from her termination.
