American Greetings Celebrates Inclusion with Equality 100 Award
American Greetings Achieves 100 Rating for LGBTQ+ Inclusion
In a significant stride towards workplace equality, American Greetings has been recognized for its efforts to foster inclusivity within its organization. The company has proudly announced its rating of 100 in the Human Rights Campaign Foundation's (HRCF) 2025 Corporate Equality Index (CEI), highlighting the firm's unwavering commitment to LGBTQ+ workplace rights.
Celebrating Equality 100 Award Recognition
American Greetings is among the elite 765 U.S. businesses that will be honored with the Equality 100 Award from the HRCF, celebrating leadership in LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion. This recognition is part of a broader trend, as this year's index surveyed a record 1,449 businesses, marking the highest engagement since the CEI began in 2002. Such participation reflects a powerful movement towards promoting inclusive and equitable business practices in various sectors.
Transformative Efforts at American Greetings
Chief Product Officer and Inclusion Executive Sponsor Kelly Ricker emphasized the importance of this accolade, stating, "American Greetings is proud to be included among those companies earning this recognition as part of the 2025 Corporate Equality Index. Our collaboration with associates reveals their priorities, which we work to incorporate into our workplace culture, policies, and benefits. We are dedicated to ensuring our creative work thrives in an inclusive environment, which keeps people at the heart of everything we do."
The Impact of the Corporate Equality Index
The CEI, beyond being just a numerical score, serves as an invaluable tool for companies to promote transparency and equality within their workplaces. RaShawn "Shawnie" Hawkins, SHRM-CP, HRCF Senior Director of Workplace Equality, explained, "The CEI has enabled businesses to ensure that LGBTQ+ individuals and their families can enjoy fair and supportive workplaces. This year-over-year growth in CEI participation showcases the commitment of the business community to uphold equity and inclusion as fundamental values."
Understanding the 2025 Corporate Equality Index Results
The results from the 2025 CEI reveal the various ways U.S.-based companies are advocating for policies that enhance LGBTQ+ workplace acceptance. From its inception with 319 participants, the CEI has increasingly become a vital standard for assessing corporate cultures, with an impressive record of 98 percent of CEI-rated businesses providing nondiscrimination protections specifically aimed at gender identity. This expanding statistic underlines the critical steps companies are taking to foster environments that honor diversity.
Core Areas of Assessment in CEI
The Corporate Equality Index evaluates employers based on four primary criteria:
- Comprehensive non-discrimination policies across all business entities.
- Equitable benefits for LGBTQ+ employees and their families.
- Support for an inclusive workplace culture.
- Commitment to corporate social responsibility initiatives.
A Mission Beyond Metrics
Following this success, American Greetings continues to focus on its mission of making the world a more thoughtful and caring place. The company remains committed to providing an array of products that help individuals connect meaningfully, whether through traditional celebrations or modern digital communications. Through brands like American Greetings, Papyrus, and more, it celebrates the moments that bring us together, showcasing its dedication to inclusivity in all communication forms.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s Corporate Equality Index?
The Corporate Equality Index is an annual benchmarking survey by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation that measures corporate policies and practices related to LGBTQ+ equality.
How did American Greetings perform in the 2025 Corporate Equality Index?
American Greetings received a rating of 100, indicating exemplary policies and practices related to LGBTQ+ inclusion.
What recognition did American Greetings receive for LGBTQ+ inclusion?
American Greetings was honored with the Equality 100 Award, recognizing its leadership in promoting LGBTQ+ workplace equality.
Why is the Corporate Equality Index important?
The CEI helps businesses assess their policies regarding LGBTQ+ rights, promoting transparency and encouraging an equitable work environment.
What are the core criteria evaluated in CEI?
The CEI assesses businesses based on non-discrimination policies, equitable benefits for LGBTQ+ individuals, inclusive culture, and social responsibility.
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