Tim Cook wrote a letter to Apple’s American employees following Trump’s presidential win

Following the U.S’s divisive November 8th election — which saw Republican candidate Donald Trump defeat Democrat Hillary Clinton to become the President-elect — Apple CEO Tim Cook felt moved to address the situation in a letter to his American staff.

The letter, obtained by Buzzfeed News, encourages employees to “move forward together” regardless of their political affiliation, while also affirming Apple’s commitment to diversity.

In June 2016, Apple refused to fund the Republican Convention, a move that put them at odds with Facebook, Google and Microsoft, which all indicated they would provide some support.

Below is the full text of the letter.

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.

Let’s move forward — together!

Best,

Tim

[source]Buzzfeed News[/source]