Baker requests Nike investigation

At the June meeting of the University Board of Regents, Regent Deane Baker (R-Ann Arbor) said he wanted the University to look into concerns he has about Nike, Inc.

Baker cited a June 16 article in the New York Times titled "Indonesian asset is also a liabilty" as the basis for his concern. The article detailed allegations about Nike, Inc.'s use of child labor in the production of its athletic wear. The article was one of numerous similar reports that have been printed recently.

Baker said he was especially concerned about the issue because of the University Athletic Department's contract with Nike, Inc.

"Every time I see that Nike symbol, I think about the University of Michigan and I think about child labor," Baker said.

In a recent written statement, Nike, Inc. denied it employs an inappropriate labor force, calling such allegations "completely false."

The statement said the average Nike line-worker's age in Asia is double the government-mandated minimum.

Vice President for University Relations Walter Harrison said he is heading up the checks Baker requested.

"The question we're asking right now is, 'Is Nike taking effective steps to address human rights issues, such as child labor?'" Harrison said.

Harrison said he has already contacted a number of people about the issue, including Nike, Inc., Reebok, Inc., and several watch-dog groups. He said he doubted the University was the only one of Nike's contractual partners asking such questions.

Harrison said he will share the information he gathers with the other executive officers and Interim University President Homer Neal. The information may eventually be delivered to the Board of Regents.

Harrison said he could not speculate on what action, if any, the University might take. "We'll find out what the facts are and then we'll see what we'll do next."

07-03-96