Local firms score high on LGBT equality index
Several major companies with operations in Central Massachusetts received the highest scores on equality from a national advocacy group for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) Americans.
The Human Rights Campaign (HRC), in announcing its 2015 Corporate Equality Index, awarded top scores of 100 to Boston Scientific, EMC, Staples, and TJX Cos., all headquartered in Central Massachusetts. Hanover Insurance Group of Worcester scored 80.
A record 366 businesses nationally earned a top mark of 100 percent, and the distinction of a “best place to work for LGBT equality,” according to a statement from HRC.
The average score for companies and law firms based in Massachusetts is 88 percent. Of the 39 companies ranked, 26 earned scores of 100, one earned between 90 and 99, and six earned between 80 and 89.
In all, 39 companies in the state were ranked for its LGBT workplace equality.
“When it comes to LGBT equality, Corporate America is a leader, not a follower,” said HRC President Chad Griffin. “At every turn, from advocating for marriage equality to providing vital support for transgender employees, this country's leading companies have asked, “what more can we do?,’ and they've worked tirelessly to achieve new progress. That kind of leadership changes countless lives around this country, and sets an important example to other companies around the globe."
But Griffin cautioned that despite steady progress, LGBT workers still face major obstacles, including high rates of unemployment and discrimination in hiring.
The index rates companies and top law firms on detailed criteria falling under five broad categories: non-discrimination policies; employment benefits; demonstrated organizational competency and accountability around LGBT diversity and inclusion; public commitment to LGBT equality; and responsible citizenship.
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