Tim Cook wins ‘Courage Against Hate’ award

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There are lots of things that make Apple so great, Cook says.
Tim Cook has been outspoken about making Apple a 'force for good' in the world.
Photo: Apple

The Anti-Defamation League is awarding Tim Cook with its first ever “Courage Against Hate” award for his work championing causes of unity, diversity, and social progress.

Cook will receive the award in a December 3 ceremony in New York City, as part of ADL’s annual “Never Is Now Summit.” Along with receiving the award, Cook will also deliver the keynote address.

“During a time where technology is being used to spread hate, Tim has been a trailblazer in combating it on Apple’s platforms,” said ADL CEO and National Director Jonathan Greenblatt in a statement. “He is a staunch advocate for the LGBTQ community and immigrants’ rights while denouncing racist vitriol like the events in Charlottesville and we are proud and excited to present Tim with this award.”

Making Apple a “force for good” in the world

Cook has frequently spoken about his desire to make Apple a “force for good” in the world. Compared to Steve Jobs, Cook has also been far more vocal as an activist, speaking up on subjects like gay rights, privacy, and more. When Cook came out as gay, he became one of the most prominent LGBT leaders in the world.

“I learned what it was like to be a minority,” Cook told CNN recently, on the subject of growing up gay. “The feeling of being in a minority gives you a level of empathy for other people who are not in the majority.”

Speaking at Fortune’s CEO Initiative earlier this year, Cook was asked how he responds to people who say he shouldn’t get involved in social issues as CEO of Apple.

“I don’t really think the vast majority people want that,” Cook responded. “And quite frankly, for the CEO of Apple, whether it’s me or someone else, you’re never going to fulfill your mission of changing the world in today’s environment by doing that. You’re not going to do all that you can do by staying quiet.”

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