NLRB Accuses Apple of Silencing Employee Advocacy on Social Media
- The NLRB has filed a complaint against Apple for allegedly restricting employees' use of social media and Slack for advocacy.
- The complaint includes claims of wrongful termination of an employee involved in workplace activism.
- This situation underscores the increasing scrutiny of Apple's labor practices and the potential impact of unionization efforts.
In October 2024, the U.S. National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) filed a complaint against Apple Inc. for allegedly limiting employees' rights to use social media and Slack for advocating better working conditions. The complaint also includes claims that Apple terminated an employee, Janneke Parrish, for her activism, which included advocating for remote work and distributing a pay equity survey. This incident is part of a broader scrutiny of Apple's labor practices, as the NLRB has previously accused the company of enforcing illegal confidentiality agreements and not extending benefits to unionized employees. The NLRB's actions reflect growing tensions between Apple and its workforce, particularly amid increasing unionization efforts at its retail locations. If Apple does not settle, a hearing will take place in February 2025, where an administrative judge will review the case, potentially impacting the company's labor relations and public image.