The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is investigating Nike for alleged discrimination against white employees through its diversity policies. The inquiry, revealed in a court motion, seeks information on Nike’s layoff criteria and race-based mentoring programs. Nike said it has cooperated with the EEOC, calling the subpoena “a surprising and unusual escalation.” The investigation follows a complaint filed by EEOC Chair Andrea Lucas, and not from any employee grievance. “When there are compelling indications, including corporate admissions in extensive public materials, that an employer’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion-related programs may violate federal prohibitions against race discrimination or other forms of unlawful discrimination, the EEOC will take all necessary steps including subpoena actions – to ensure the opportunity to fully and comprehensively investigate,” Lucas said. Nike said it follows “all applicable laws, including those that prohibit discrimination. We believe our programs and practices are consistent with those obligations and take these matters seriously.”