Tyler Steele worked at an Apple Store in Virginia and converted to Judaism in 2023. His original manager allowed him to take Fridays and Saturdays off to observe Shabbat, but according to the lawsuit, a new manager later refused that arrangement.
The lawsuit says Steele also complained to Apple about antisemitic behavior following the October 7 attacks in Israel. He was fired in January 2024 after again telling his manager that he could not work an upcoming Friday because of Shabbat.
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission sued Apple, accusing the company of religious discrimination and retaliation. Apple denied the allegations and did not admit wrongdoing as part of the settlement.
Under the proposed deal, Steele will receive $80,000 in back pay and $70,000 in damages and interest. Apple will also update its religious-accommodation policies and provide additional training to certain employees in Virginia.