#Japan #Tokyo #Sumitomo Forestry #PRIDE Index #LGBTQ Initiatives

Achieving Gold: Sumitomo Forestry’s Commitment to LGBTQ Inclusion

On November 14, Sumitomo Forestry Co., Ltd., headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo, announced a significant achievement in its workplace equality efforts. The company has been awarded the prestigious Gold rating from the PRIDE Index 2025 for the fourth consecutive year. This accomplishment highlights Sumitomo Forestry's unwavering commitment to fostering a workplace where LGBTQ individuals can thrive and feel valued.

Understanding the PRIDE Index

The PRIDE Index was introduced in Japan in 2016 by the voluntary organization ‘work with Pride’ with the goal of promoting a work environment in which LGBTQ employees can take pride in their identity. The rating system classifies companies into three tiers: Gold, Silver, and Bronze. To qualify for the Gold rating, organizations must satisfy five specific criteria corresponding to the acronym ‘PRIDE’: 1) Policy – Clear declarations of action, 2) Representation – Visibility and involvement of the LGBTQ community, 3) Inspiration – Initiatives that raise awareness, 4) Development – Human resource systems and programs supporting LGBTQ inclusivity, and 5) Engagement/Empowerment – Contributions toward societal change. Meeting the requirements across these categories ensures recognition at the highest level.

Sumitomo Forestry’s Actions

Since 2021, Sumitomo Forestry has implemented training programs aimed at enhancing understanding and knowledge of LGBTQ issues among its employees. Approximately 600 personnel, including executives, departmental and branch leaders, as well as staff from human resources and recruitment, participated in this training. The company promotes e-learning for all employees and has established an external counseling service to support individual inquiries.

To formalize its commitment, Sumitomo Forestry instituted a ‘Partnership System’ in January 2022, which allows same-sex partners and those in de facto marriages to access the same internal systems and benefits as legal spouses. The company also shares information about LGBTQ awareness initiatives, such as Tokyo Pride, on its internal portal and has distributed custom ally stickers to employees.

As part of cultivating engagement, Sumitomo Forestry plans to distribute virtual backgrounds for online meetings in honor of Pride Month each June starting in 2025. Through these various initiatives, the company aims to increase the number of allies within its workforce. The term ‘ally’ refers to individuals who support and understand the rights of LGBTQ individuals.

Looking Ahead

Looking toward the future, Sumitomo Forestry Group has established a long-term vision titled ‘Mission TREEING 2030,’ aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set for 2030. This vision encompasses nine key challenges centered around creating value for the global environment, society, and economic markets. One of these vital challenges focuses on enhancing work environments that allow all employees to flourish and find fulfillment in their roles. The company is committed to ensuring that every person involved in its supply chain can work in a safe, healthy, and enriching environment.

Conclusion

Sumitomo Forestry’s continuous recognition from the PRIDE Index illustrates its steadfast dedication to LGBTQ rights and inclusivity in the workplace. By implementing policies and practices that promote equality, the company sets a benchmark for others to follow and paves the way towards a more inclusive corporate culture.



For more information on their partnership system, visit here.