The growth of anti-LGBT+ sentiment in some parts of the world is a concern for the global businesses community. Experience has taught that open, inclusive, diverse societies are better for business, and the response of many global companies to anti-LGBT+ laws is a clear indication of the concern caused.
Nisaba Godrej, Director at Godrej, said “I would be proud if we create a culture where our LGBT colleagues can be comfortable.”
Masayoshi Son, Founder and CEO of SoftBank, which has become known in Japan for its support of LGBT+ employees
Jack Ma, Founder and CEO of Alibaba, which “hopes to evoke respect and understanding of homosexuality.”
“When people feel included they leverage the richness of perspectives.”
Bonang Mohale, Former Chairman of Shell in South Africa
“We push everything forward.”
Ma Baoli (aka Geng Le), Founder and CEO of China’s biggest gay dating app BlueD
“Part of social progress is understanding that a person is not defined only by one’s sexuality, race or gender.”
Tim Cook, CEO, Apple
Nandita Gurjar, former Group Head of HR at Infosys , seeks to create “a safe and harassment free work place irrespective of sexual orientation.”
“The cost of inequality is a price businesses cannot afford to pay.”
Arne Sorenson, CEO, Marriot International
AT&T’s CEO Randall Stephenson appeared on CNBC to discuss anti-gay policies in Russia: “It was very important for us to come out and take a stand on it,” he said.
Starbucks CEO Howard Shultz told an investor “sell your shares” after he complained about the company’s support for LGB&T equality.