Apple Workers Launch Petition against Return-to-Office Mandate

Apple employees are slamming the company’s return-to-office mandate, arguing the policy is too restrictive and ignores their successful shift to remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A group of workers calling themselves “Apple Together” launched a petition drive on Monday — citing the “exceptional work” done by staffers both remotely and in-office as a sign that corporate leaders needed to rethink their plans.

“This uniform mandate from senior leadership does not consider the unique demands of each job role nor the diversity of individuals,” the petition states.

“Those asking for more flexible arrangements have many compelling reasons and circumstances: from disabilities (visible or not); family care; safety, health, and environmental concerns; financial considerations; to just plain being happier and more productive,” it adds.

Apple indicated earlier this month that its corporate employees would be required to work at least three days per week on site beginning on Sept. 5, Bloomberg reported. The company had delayed its return-to-office plans several times during the pandemic due to COVID-19 case surges.