Apple CEO Tim Cook has urged staff to ‘move forward together’ following the election of Donald Trump, a man who attempted to spark an Apple boycott (while tweeting from an iPhone, early in the campaign).
In an email to employees, the most powerful man in tech said he’d received plenty of feedback from Applers following Trump’s improbable win and called on employees to unite and support those who may be feeling vulnerable.
Without mentioning Trump by name, he said the result did not change Apple’s “North Star” which was to make products that improve lives.
He wrote: “While there is discussion today about uncertainties ahead, you can be confident that Apple’s North Star hasn’t changed. Our products connect people everywhere, and they provide the tools for our customers to do great things to improve their lives and the world at large.
“Our company is open to all, and we celebrate the diversity of our team here in the United States and around the world — regardless of what they look like, where they come from, how they worship or who they love.”
Trump, should be choose to stick to any of his campaign pledges, could be on a collision course over Apple’s manufacturing of products outside the US.
The new President-elect was upset with Apple over its refusal to unlock the iPhone of the terrorist behind the San Bernardino shooting last year.
He also wants tech giants like Apple to bring manufacturing back to the United States. Apple’s use of companies like Foxconn to manufacturer the iPhone in questionable conditions for employees has long been under the microscope.
Should be company make a larger commitment to building products on home soil? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Here’s Cook’s email to staff in full (via Buzzfeed)
“Team,
I’ve heard from many of you today about the presidential election. In a political contest where the candidates were so different and each received a similar number of popular votes, it’s inevitable that the aftermath leaves many of you with strong feelings.
We have a very diverse team of employees, including supporters of each of the candidates. Regardless of which candidate each of us supported as individuals, the only way to move forward is to move forward together. I recall something Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. said 50 years ago: “If you can’t fly, then run. If you can’t run, then walk. If you can’t walk, then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.” This advice is timeless, and a reminder that we only do great work and improve the world by moving forward.
While there is discussion today about uncertainties ahead, you can be confident that Apple’s North Star hasn’t changed. Our products connect people everywhere, and they provide the tools for our customers to do great things to improve their lives and the world at large. Our company is open to all, and we celebrate the diversity of our team here in the United States and around the world — regardless of what they look like, where they come from, how they worship or who they love.
I’ve always looked at Apple as one big family and I encourage you to reach out to your co-workers if they are feeling anxious.
