IBM reached a settlement with the federal government on Friday, agreeing to pay roughly $17 million to resolve allegations of illegal diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) practices.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche announced the settlement agreement in a press release.
The DOJ had alleged that the New York-based technology firm “knowingly” made “false claims” about its hiring and employment practices in its federal contracts, according to the settlement. IBM allegedly identified “diverse” candidates for hiring or promotions, while developing race and sex demographic goals.
“IBM is pleased to have resolved this matter,” an IBM spokesperson told CNN over email. “Our workforce strategy is