Pichai, Cook rap Trump for banning transgenders in US military

Top tech honchos from Apple, Microsoft and Google have lashed out at US President Donald Trump over his tweet where he called for prohibiting transgenders from serving in any capacity in the US armed forces.

While terming the decision discriminatory, Apple CEO Tim Cook tweeted: "We are indebted to all who serve. Discrimination against anyone holds everyone back. #LetThemServe".

In a series of tweets, Trump had said that after consulting his Generals and military experts, he decided not to allow transgenders serve in the US military as it would result in tremendous medical costs and disruption that transgender in the military would entail.

Soon after Trump's tweets, tech industry leaders late on Wednesday took to Twitter and criticised the US President for his call to prohibit transgenders in military services, using "#LetThemServe" hashtag.

Indian-born Google CEO Sundar Pichai took to Twitter and wrote: "I am grateful to the transgender members of the military for their service. #LetThemServe."

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg posted on his profile that everyone should be able to serve their country, "no matter who they are."

According to Brad Smith, Microsoft President and Chief Legal Officer, "We honor and respect all who serve, including the transgender members of our military".

This is not the first time tech leader have sided opposite to Trump to speak openly against his decision. They have openly criticised him for his decisions like infringing upon LGBTQ rights, immigration, offshoring of jobs, encryption and banning immigrants from few countries to enter the US.

Last year Apple, Google, Microsoft and others tech giants slammed a North Carolina law that limited bathroom access for transgender people.

--IANS

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