Apple, the world’s most valuable company, has found itself in the crosshairs of the U.S. government in a case that strikes at the very heart of religious freedom. On the eve of Yom Kippur, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission filed a lawsuit accusing Apple of antisemitism, religious discrimination, and retaliation. The suit names a retail employee, Tyler Steele, who converted to Judaism in 2023 and quickly found himself the target of hostility inside one of Apple’s Virginia stores. According to the complaint, a manager made antisemitic remarks, including comments about body odor, and shut down any discussion of the Hamas massacre of October 7. Steele asked for accommodations to observe the Sabbath, only to be denied. When he refused to work on a Friday evening, honoring his faith, Apple fired him. Twice he reported the conduct. Twice his concerns were brushed aside.
The EEOC is not mincing words. It is seeking back pay, damages, and accountability under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The case comes as Apple has styled itself as a progressive corporate leader, publicly championing diversity, equity, and inclusion. Yet behind the glossy marketing campaigns, the lawsuit paints a darker picture of intolerance and punishment directed at a Jewish employee who simply wanted to live by his faith. The federal government stepping in is no small matter. This is not a single employee grievance handled quietly by human resources. This is Washington charging Apple with violating federal law.
The silence from Cupertino has been deafening. Apple has not responded publicly to the allegations, leaving its loyal customer base and Jewish employees across the country to wonder if the company really stands for the values it preaches. The case will now proceed through the courts, forcing one of the most powerful corporations in the world to defend itself against accusations that it fostered antisemitism in its own ranks. For the Jewish community, it is a reminder that no amount of money, branding, or status can protect against hatred when it festers unchecked…even at Apple.
