Tim Cook addresses immigration fears among Apple employees

Apple CEO Tim Cook

• Tim Cook says US immigration policy makes some Apple staff feel unsafe at home
• Cook pledges to lobby lawmakers and support DACA recipients at Apple
• Apple stresses global talent is key to its innovation and success

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Apple chief executive Tim Cook has spoken out forcefully against the United States’ current approach to immigration, telling employees he is “deeply distraught” and warning that it is making some Apple staff feel unsafe in their own homes.

The comments came during an all-hands meeting on Thursday, where Cook addressed a wide range of issues, including artificial intelligence, executive succession, and immigration policy. According to those present, the tone of Cook’s remarks on immigration was unusually personal.

“I’ve heard from some of you that don’t feel comfortable leaving your homes,” Cook told employees. “No one should feel this way. No one.”

Cook said immigration is a core issue for Apple because of its workforce makeup, noting that many employees across the US are on some form of visa. He argued that the company’s success has long depended on its ability to attract talent from around the world.

“For as long as I can remember, we have been a smarter, wiser, more innovative company because we’ve attracted the best and brightest from all corners of the world,” he said. Cook added that he plans to continue engaging directly with lawmakers. “I am going to continue to lobby lawmakers on this issue. You have my word on that.”

The remarks follow a memo Cook sent to employees last week, in which he said he was “heartbroken” by events in Minneapolis, where federal agents killed two people. In that message, Cook called for de-escalation and said he had raised the issue with US President Donald Trump.

That earlier memo, however, drew internal criticism from some employees, who privately described Cook’s response as limited and slow. During Thursday’s meeting, Cook appeared to acknowledge those concerns, reiterating his stance that dignity and safety should not depend on nationality or immigration status.

“Every person deserves to be treated with dignity and respect,” Cook said. “No matter where they come from.”

One exchange during the meeting underscored the anxiety felt by some staff. An employee told Cook they were worried about being deported and separated from their daughter. In response, Cook spoke directly about Apple’s support for workers covered by the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals programme.

“I love you if you’re on DACA,” Cook said. He noted that Apple employs hundreds of DACA recipients and described himself as a strong supporter of the programme. “I will personally advocate for you,” he added. “I am a huge believer in the programme.”

Cook’s comments position Apple as one of the more outspoken large US companies on immigration at a time of heightened political tension. While he stopped short of outlining specific policy demands, his pledge to continue lobbying lawmakers suggests Apple intends to remain actively involved in the debate, particularly where it affects the company’s employees and its ability to recruit global talent.