American Greetings Receives Equality 100 Award for LGBTQ+ Workplace Inclusion in 2025

American Greetings Achieves Exceptional Recognition in LGBTQ+ Workplace Inclusion



American Greetings Corporation has made headlines by achieving a perfect score of 100 on the Human Rights Campaign Foundation's (HRCF) 2025 Corporate Equality Index (CEI). This remarkable recognition showcases the company’s steadfast commitment to creating an inclusive work environment for LGBTQ+ individuals.

The CEI serves as a prominent benchmarking survey that assesses corporate practices and policies regarding LGBTQ+ equality in the workplace, and this year, American Greetings is among the 765 U.S. businesses that have earned the coveted Equality 100 Award, a testament to their leadership in workplace inclusion.

Kelly Ricker, the Chief Product Officer and Inclusion Executive Sponsor, expressed pride in the achievement, emphasizing that maintaining inclusivity is crucial not only for their workforce but also for the creative endeavors of the company. "The creative work we do is contingent on inclusivity, and we remain committed to keeping people at the heart of all we do," Ricker stated.

The 2025 CEI includes a record number of 1,449 businesses, reflecting a growing awareness within corporate America about the importance of diversity and inclusion. The index notes that 98% of participating businesses have implemented nondiscrimination protections based on gender identity, protecting over 22 million U.S. workers.

Historically, the CEI started with 319 participants, demonstrating impressive growth over the years as more companies realize the importance of supportive environments for LGBTQ+ employees. Ricker's comments underline the company's dedication to maintaining these high standards through partnerships, educational initiatives, and strong community engagement.

According to RaShawn "Shawnie" Hawkins, HRCF Senior Director of Workplace Equality, the CEI has been a valuable tool for enhancing transparency within the corporate ecosystem. She adds that it is not just a score, but a means for businesses to evolve and adopt equitable practices that benefit their employees and society at large.

The recognition by the HRCF further cements American Greetings' reputation in the Celebrations marketplace, where they strive to help people commemorate significant moments in life. The company's offerings include a variety of greeting cards and digital greeting platforms, focusing on all occasions ranging from holidays to personal milestones.

American Greetings’ commitment to diversity and inclusion is not limited to its policies but extends to its product offerings, ensuring representation and celebration of all identities. Their strategy includes actively involving associates in shaping workplace culture and fostering a sense of belonging.

As the world continues to evolve towards recognition of diverse identities, American Greetings stands at the forefront, highlighting the importance of fostering environments that empower LGBTQ+ individuals. The company remains steadfast in its mission to make the world more caring and thoughtful, one celebration at a time.

For those interested, the full 2025 Corporate Equality Index report can be accessed online at the Human Rights Campaign's official website. This encapsulates American Greetings' unwavering commitment to equality and workplace fairness, establishing a benchmark for others in the industry to aspire to.

In conclusion, American Greetings' Excellence in the 2025 CEI is a beacon of hope and progress within corporate America. It exemplifies how businesses can play a vital role in supporting the LGBTQ+ community and promoting understanding and acceptance for all. As this conversation continues to expand and evolve, it becomes vital for other organizations to recognize their roles in fostering inclusivity and equity as well.

Topics People & Culture)

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