San Francisco (AFP)

Apple launched a $ 100 million "racial fairness and justice" initiative on Thursday, a decision made as US companies and authorities try to respond to the spate of anti-racism protests.

The Californian electronics and technology giant intends to tackle the "systemic barriers" faced by people of color, especially African-Americans, explained his boss Tim Cook in a video posted on Twitter.

"Whether at Apple or anywhere in society, the weight of change must not rest on the shoulders of those who are under-represented," he said.

"It is primarily the responsibility of those in positions of power and influence to change structures for the common good."

Since the death of George Floyd, an African-American asphyxiated by a white police officer two weeks ago, numerous protests have taken place across the United States, and beyond, to demand an end to police violence and, more generally, "systemic racism".

The mobilization, reflected on social networks, is unprecedented since the civil rights movement in the 1960s.

Tim Cook spoke about his childhood in the state of Alabama during this period to underline the importance that "people of good will put aside their comfort and security" and demand that leaders take their responsibilities.

The initiative will be led by Lisa Jackson, Apple's vice president of corporate social responsibility.

The boss promised a "holistic" approach, which will support education, civil society organizations and businesses owned by black people.

© 2020 AFP