Apple CEO Tim Cook announced he's gay in an op-ed for Bloomberg Businessweek published on Thursday. This is the first time he has made a public statement about his sexuality.
"While I have never denied my sexuality, I haven't publicly acknowledged it either, until now. So let me be clear: I'm proud to be gay, and I consider being gay among the greatest gifts God has given me," Cook said.
In the piece, Cook stated that he has been open about being gay in his private life, and that many people within Apple know as well. Although he values his privacy, he felt that he had a greater responsibility as an important figure in the business world to come out publicly.
"I don't consider myself an activist, but I realize how much I've benefited from the sacrifice of others," Cook said. "So if hearing that the CEO of Apple is gay can help someone struggling to come to terms with who he or she is, or bring comfort to anyone who feels alone, or inspire people to insist on their equality, then it's worth the trade-off with my own privacy."
Cook cited the continued discrimination against the gay community as a reason for his decision to speak out. As a company, Apple has defended gay rights in the past, speaking out against legislation such as Prop 8.
"The company I am so fortunate to lead has long advocated for human rights and equality for all. We'll continue to fight for our values, and I believe that any CEO of this incredible company, regardless of race, gender, or sexual orientation, would do the same," Cook said.
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