Tim Cook Pledges to Advocate for Immigration Reform Amid Employee Concerns
In late January 2026, Apple CEO Tim Cook addressed his employees in a company-wide memo, expressing his deep sorrow over the tragic events in Minneapolis, specifically referencing the shooting of Alex Pretti by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. This incident has intensified the ongoing national debate on immigration policies and their enforcement.
Following the memo, Cook convened an all-hands meeting to directly engage with staff concerns. During this session, he acknowledged the anxiety among employees, stating, I’ve heard from some of you that you don’t feel comfortable leaving your homes. No one should feel this way. No one. He emphasized the critical role of immigration in Apple’s success, noting that the company has long benefited from attracting top talent worldwide. Cook assured his team of his commitment to advocate for immigration reform, declaring, I’m going to continue to lobby lawmakers on the issue. You have my word on that.
This commitment aligns with Cook’s history of supporting immigrant rights. In 2017, he publicly backed the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, highlighting that Apple employed over 250 Dreamers and asserting their right to be recognized as equals. In 2018, Cook joined other CEOs in signing a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen, expressing concern over immigration policies that caused anxiety among employees and disrupted company operations. He has consistently voiced opposition to restrictive immigration measures, emphasizing that diversity strengthens the nation and fuels innovation.
However, Cook’s recent attendance at a private screening of a documentary about Melania Trump on the night of Pretti’s shooting drew criticism from some employees. This event underscored the delicate balance Cook navigates in maintaining a working relationship with the administration while advocating for policies that align with Apple’s values.
Apple’s proactive stance on immigration is not new. In 2017, the company considered legal action against President Trump’s executive order limiting immigration from several Muslim-majority countries. Cook emphasized that Apple would not exist without immigration and pledged support to affected employees. In 2019, he urged the U.S. Senate to pass the Fairness for High-Skilled Immigrants Act, aiming to streamline the immigration process for skilled workers.
The recent developments highlight the ongoing challenges tech companies face in balancing corporate interests, employee concerns, and political dynamics. Cook’s pledge to lobby for immigration reform reflects a broader commitment to uphold the values of diversity and inclusion that are integral to Apple’s identity.
