The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) released its 2015 Corporate Equality Index, an annual report assessing LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender) inclusion in major companies and law firms across the nation. The report included three major tire companies this year: Bridgestone Americas, Cooper Tire & Rubber Co. and Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co.
In the assessment report, Bridgestone Americas earned a score of 77; Cooper scored 25; and Goodyear scored 15. HRC said that 366 companies earned a score of 100.
According to the organization, the report – a national benchmarking tool on corporate policies and practices related to LGBT workplace equality – rates companies on a 0-100 scale based their non-discrimination policies; employment benefits; demonstrated organizational competency and accountability around LGBT diversity and inclusion; public commitment to LGBT equality; and responsible citizenship.
In total, 781 companies were officially rated in the 2015 CEI. The report also unofficially rated 190 Fortune 500 companies that have yet to respond to the CEI survey about their LGBT policies and practices.
“There’s no question that diversity – of thought, cultures, and abilities – helps nurture and attract the best teammates to a premier place to work,” said Paul Oakley, vice president of communications for Bridgestone Americas. “Bridgestone is continuously developing a culture that represents the unique values, opinions, cultures and needs of all our teammates. And with industry leading brands, it’s equally important to reflect similar values of our community neighbors, suppliers and ultimately all those who rely on our products and services.”
Tire Review has reached out to Cooper for a comment, but has received no response as yet. Goodyear declined to comment.
To download the full report and view a breakdown of the companies included in the report, click here.