MGM Resorts Named One of the “Best Places to Work for LGBTQ Equality”
November 22, 2017
For the sixth consecutive year, Human Rights Campaign (HRC) has rated MGM Resorts International as among the nation’s leading companies for workplace equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) employees.
Based on the company’s policies and practices relating to LGBTQ employees, MGM Resorts earned a perfect score on the 2018 Corporate Equality Index (CEI), an annual HRC survey that evaluates major companies for their non-discrimination and benefits policies and practices with respect to LGBTQ employees.
“Diversity and inclusion are bedrocks of our company culture and way of doing business,” said Phyllis A. James, MGM Resorts executive vice president and chief diversity and corporate responsibility officer.
She continued, “This commitment is demonstrated not only through our diverse workforce, but also in the top quality of service we provide to our guests who visit us from all corners and cultures of the world.”
The CEI assessment focuses on LGBTQ-related company policies and practices, including nondiscrimination workplace protections, transgender-inclusive health care benefits, competency programs and public engagement with the LGBTQ community.
The 2018 CEI rated 947 businesses, of which 609 achieved 100 percent, earning the coveted distinction of “Best Places to Work for LGBTQ Equality.”
According to MGM Resorts officials, the company has a long-standing record of support of the LGBTQ community, including as a National Corporate Partner of HRC. Examples include:
- The company was the first in the gaming and hospitality industry to formally adopt a diversity initiative (2000) and to offer health benefits to same-sex couples (2004).
- In 2004, MGM Resorts was a founding partner of the Las Vegas chapter of the Human Rights Campaign.
- MGM Resorts has sponsored the Las Vegas PRIDE Parade for 12 years, most recently serving as the presenting sponsor.
- In 2011, MGM Resorts expanded its supplier and construction diversity programs to include LGBTQ-owned firms.
- In 2013, MGM Resorts donated $300,000 to The Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Southern Nevada to support the construction and opening of its new building.
- Years before same-sex marriage was legalized, same-sex commitment ceremonies were performed at chapels at MGM Resorts’ properties, which continue to develop specialized marriage ceremony offerings and outreach to same-sex couples.
“We are honored to be recognized for the vigorous efforts we invest in promoting equality for all within our Company, our communities and human society,” James said.
She added, “We will proudly continue to stand with the LGBTQ community in helping to build a world that embraces inclusion and respect for the humanity and dignity of all people.”
For more information about MGM Resorts International’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, go HERE.
The Human Rights Campaign Foundation is the educational arm of the nation’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual transgender and queer people. HRC envisions a world where LGBTQ people are embraced as full members of society at home, at work and in every community. To learn more, go HERE.
Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is renowned for its exceptional service and diverse venue options across Las Vegas, Detroit, Springfield, National Harbor, Biloxi, and Atlantic City, providing flexible spaces for meetings of any size. Beyond these offerings, MGM Resorts distinguishes itself through a strong commitment to social responsibility and sustainability, making it an ideal choice for your next meeting.
At the core of MGM Resorts' company values is its platform, "Focused on What Matters," dedicated to meeting customer needs while advancing socially responsible practices. This commitment is evident in several key areas:
Protecting Natural Resources
MGM Resorts is home to industry-leading recycling, renewable electricity and water conservation programs. Some highlights include a cogeneration power plant at ARIA, producing ultra-efficient electricity; one of America’s largest contiguous rooftop solar arrays atop the convention center at Mandalay Bay; and onsite wells that provide water for the celebrated Fountains of Bellagio, avoiding reliance on precious Colorado River water. These efforts and many more save on natural resources while boosting attendee satisfaction.
Committed to Community
Always striving to be good neighbors, MGM Resorts works to avoid food waste and combat food insecurity with the Feeding Forward program. In partnership with local food banks, they safely divert unserved food to food insecure members of the community. Since 2016, over 5 million meals have been provided, highlighting MGM Resorts' commitment to minimizing food waste and addressing community needs.
MGM Resorts supports clients in their responsible-meetings efforts, not only with efficient venues but also waste-reducing décor and signage; sustainable food and beverage options; and outreach to help planners communicate sustainability efforts to attendees. What’s more, they offer a Mindful Meetings series that puts attendee wellness first—through fitness and mindfulness activities, and in give-back events with local charity organizations.
Fostering Diversity & Inclusion
To MGM Resorts, a diverse and talented workforce is essential to success. By cultivating innovative strategies that consider multiple perspectives and viewpoints, the company creates an inclusive workplace culture that benefits its employees and community. MGM Resorts takes pride in being a welcoming home for veterans, individuals with disabilities, people from diverse backgrounds, LGBTQ+ community members, and more. This commitment to inclusion is reflected in the company's recruitment and hiring practices and its social responsibility initiatives. From the workplace to the community, MGM Resorts' commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion remains unwavering, and its efforts continue to create a more equitable and sustainable world for all.
MGM Resorts offers unparalleled service and venue options while standing out for its proactive approach to sustainability and community engagement. Choosing MGM Resorts for your next meeting means aligning with a company that values social responsibility, efficiency, and attendee satisfaction, ensuring a meaningful and impactful event experience.
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