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Apple chief Tim Cook has called for unity and for staff to “move forward together” in the wake of Donald Trump’s victory in the US election.
In a memo sent to Apple employees and reported by BuzzFeed, Cook said the close nature of the election result meant it was “inevitable that the aftermath leaves many of you with strong feelings”.
In a shock result, Republican nominee Trump defeated Democrat rival Hillary Clinton to become president-elect.
“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,” Cook said.
“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.”
Trump was critical of Apple during his presidential campaign over its overseas manufacturing business, but Cook said the company would continue to push to improve lives with its products.
“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.”
Though he did not mention either of the candidates by name, the Apple chief executive acknowledged the divisive nature of the presidential campaign while reaffirming Apple’s stance on equality.
“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,” he said.
“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.”
