Food Lion again has received a perfect score of 100 percent on the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s 2021 Corporate Equality Index (CEI), a benchmarking survey and report on corporate policies and practices related to LGBTQ workplace equality.
This is the 12th consecutive year that Food Lion has received a top score.
“LGBTQ equality is important to Food Lion, and we are proud to have earned a perfect score for the 12th consecutive year,” said Linda Johnson, SVP of human resources and chief human resources officer at Food Lion. “We are committed to be a Best Place to Work for LGBTQ equality and to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment where associates have a sense of belonging and feel comfortable being themselves.”
In addition to receiving the perfect score on the Index, Food Lion is also a member of the HRC Business Coalition for the Equality Act, which would create comprehensive non-discrimination protections for individuals in the LGBTQ community.
“Food Lion continues to support and prioritize LGBTQ equality,” said Maryja Mee, category analyst and chair of the Friends Business Resource Group at Food Lion, which is comprised of associates from across Food Lion committed to ensuring the organization’s commitment to equality is brought to life throughout the company. “This score is a true representation of our mission of building a more inclusive company and stronger communities.”
The 2021 CEI evaluated LGBTQ-related policies and practices in four broad categories: non-discrimination policies, employment benefits, supporting an inclusive culture and corporate social responsibility.
The 100 percent ranking means Food Lion again will be designated as a 2021 Best Place to Work for LGBTQ Equality.
Food Lion, based in Salisbury, North Carolina, since 1957, has more than 1,000 stores in 10 Southeastern and Mid-Atlantic states and employs more than 77,000 associates.
The company also has been donating meals to those in need. See story, here.
