Baker Donelson has received a high score on the 2020 Corporate Equality Index (CEI), a national benchmarking survey and report on corporate policies and practices related to LGBTQ workplace equality, administered by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation.
Baker Donelson earned a score of 90 on the 2020 CEI report, which rated businesses around the world on detailed criteria falling under four broad categories: non-discrimination policies; employment benefits; supporting an inclusive culture and corporate social responsibility including public commitment to LGBTQ equality; and responsible citizenship.
Mark A. Baugh, chair of Baker Donelson's Diversity Committee, said, "Baker Donelson is proud to once again be recognized by the HRC as an organization that is committed to being an open and accepting workplace. We continue to be focused on ensuring our Firm is a welcoming and nurturing workplace for LGBTQ attorneys and staff."
Baker Donelson launched its Diversity Initiative in 2002 to focus on recruiting, developing and retaining employees from diverse backgrounds and creating an inclusive workplace environment. The Firm later launched Baker Affinitas, a large and active employee resource group for LGBTQ attorneys and staff, as well as straight allies in the Firm. Through Affinitas, Baker Donelson sponsors and supports numerous LGBTQ community organizations and events in the Firm's footprint and provides a means for members to become involved in the Firm's efforts to promote LGBTQ equality.
About HRC
As the largest civil rights organization working to achieve equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer Americans, the Human Rights Campaign represents a force of more than three million members and supporters nationwide – all committed to making HRC's vision a reality. HRC envisions a world where lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer people are embraced as full members of society at home, at work and in every community.