gayfriendly.JPG“A record number of U.S. companies are trying to be gay-friendly, according to a survey released on Tuesday showing a growing number offering benefits and protections to gay and lesbian employees and customers.” This wonderful comment comes courtesy of Reuters through Msn Money

“An unprecedented 138 major U.S. companies scored 100 percent in a Corporate Equality Index compiled by the Human Rights Campaign, a Washington-based gay rights advocacy group” That is always a good thing, I think any person from the GLBT community would put better or more diversity training on their wish list as well, but benefits are the ultimate. Being able to provide for your spouse and children definitely removes some load off the mind, even if it comes at an added expense.

The article also lists some of the top companies that have been doing this: IBM, Citigroup, J.P Morgan Chase & Co., Levi’s and Nike. I have been happy to work among the local telecommunication companies locally and each one has offered benefits to Surfgirl and I. It is actually one of the requirements of finding a job. Benefits are number 1 and pay is number 2 in priorities for me.

Of course it also goes to show that the GLBT community is showing up in the stats for the companies’ bottom line:

“I think corporations are responding to a basic American value that has served them well for hundreds of years, that does not change with the political winds,” Herrschaft said. “That is giving everybody equal opportunity at work and making them feel like valued employees is not only the right thing but it’s also good for the bottom line.”

Research shows gay and lesbian consumers spend some $641 billion a year, he said. Also, gays and lesbians are likely to pay attention to workplace policies, are brand-loyal and have higher amounts of disposable income, Herrschaft

Here is the full report from HRC for 2006