Apple Chief Executive Tim Cook, who publicly acknowledged being gay, has reportedly donated a “substantial” amount of money to a gay rights initiative in his native Alabama and two other Southern states.
The Washington-based Human Rights Campaign announced the contribution on Thursday. Although the exact amount of donation wasn’t disclosed, the advocacy organization called it “substantial.”
Cook’s donation has been made in favour of the Human Rights Campaign’s Project One America, which aims to promote gay rights and build acceptance for gays, lesbians, bisexuals and transgendered people in the socially conservative states of Alabama, Mississippi and Arkansas.
“When Tim first learned about HRC’s Project One America – our bold, comprehensive campaign to dramatically advance equality for LGBT Americans in Alabama, Arkansas and Mississippi – he said, “I’m in.” Thanks to his generous personal financial investment in the program, together we will move the needle forward at the local and state level, tearing down misperceptions and providing concrete protections for those who need it most,” an HRC blog post by President Chad Griffin read.
Launched in April, the three year $8.5 million campaign includes television advertisements, direct mail, billboards, radio ads and other similar outreach efforts.
Acknowledging Cook’s contribution, Jason Rahlan, spokesman for the Human Rights Campaign, said “We hope Tim Cook’s substantial personal investment inspires others to support this vital and historic project.”
Apple spokeswoman Kristin Huguet also confirmed the donation saying “It’s a personal donation from Tim.”
Cook, who grew up in south Alabama near the Gulf Coast, made headlines in October when he publicly announced himself as a gay Apple CEO.
