What a way to kick off Pride Month!
Verizon scores big again as a Best Place to Work for LGBTQ Equality, earning a 100% Corporate Equality Index (CEI) rating.
Full Transparency
Our editorial transparency tool uses blockchain technology to permanently log all changes made to official releases after publication. However, this post is not an official release and therefore not tracked. Visit our learn more for more information.
Left: Allia McLeod; Right: Jeremy Washburn
As we begin Pride Month, we are proud of our biggest strength — our V Teamers. One of our biggest goals is to ensure that everyone can be their authentic selves at work, which is why we’ve once again been recognized as a 2021 Best Place to Work for LGBTQ Equality.
How did we do?
Verizon received a 100% score for the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation’s Corporate Equality Index (CEI). Our score is a great reflection of how we foster an inclusive culture where all V Teamers can feel a sense of belonging and contribute their best every day.
This year, the HRC Foundation recognized a record-breaking 767 businesses for meeting all of their criteria to earn the 100% Corporate Equality Index (CEI) rating. We’re honored to be counted among these companies that take thoughtful and deliberate steps to establish comprehensive policies, benefits, and business practices providing an equitable experience every day for LGBTQ employees.
LGBT+ Role Model Lists 2020
In Verizon’s continued efforts to bring awareness and support to LGBTQ equality, we want to congratulate two V Teamers, Jeremy Washburn and Allia McLeod. Both have been selected as 2020 OUTstanding LGBT+ Role Models for their continued contributions and commitment.
This list showcases LGBT+ business leaders and allies who are breaking down barriers and creating more inclusive workplaces across the world.
Jeremy Washburn
Jeremy, who works as a Verizon Solutions Architect, actively displays their efforts in drawing awareness to LGBTQ equality by serving as the Global Operations Lead for our Verizon Prism employee resource group (ERG).
Within the community, Jeremy has helped to lead events such as the Stonewall Columbus Pride Parade and festival and other local events. Jeremy played a pivotal role in helping to plan Verizon’s 2020 virtual Pride Month program and ensure its success.
For their active approach and engagement, Jeremy has been recognized on OUTstanding’s Top 100 LGBT+ Future Leaders list.
Allia McLeod
As the head of brand relations and content development for Verizon Media Group, Allia was recognized on OUTstanding’s Top 100 LGBT + Executives list.
Allia has taken an active role in creating an open space to educate colleagues on gender, sexuality, allyship, and LGBT+ history. She is currently developing a mentorship program for LGBT+ youth that is focused on career development and a more inclusive workplace.
Allia and Jeremy - we appreciate all you do!
Thank you to the companies that understand protecting their LGBTQ employees and consumers from discrimination is not just the right thing to do – but the best business decision.
Alphonso David, Human Rights Campaign President
Moving the world forward takes more than the best technology, it takes the best people. We are proud to foster an inclusive workplace where V Teamers can feel accepted, safe, and welcome.
This Pride Month, we’ll be sharing more great stories from our very own V Teamers and how they celebrate Pride. Stay tuned and check out our calendar of events planned for the month!
| Date | Description |
| June 2 | Lingo BINGO. Verizon PRISM is hosting a virtual Bingo game to help encourage allies and members to familiarize themselves with the LGBTQ lingo that is current and appropriate. All are welcome. |
| June 3 | Class of 2021: #Ready for Anything virtual commencement, featuring keynote speakers from a cross-section of industries. This year, Bob the Drag Queen, an LGBTQ activist, will give one of the commencement speeches. |
| June 4 | L Week Trivia. PRISM hosts a fun night of trivia in celebration of the lesbian community within the broader LGBTQ community. All are welcome. |
| June 15 | Tie-Dye Demonstration. Our Omaha chapter of PRISM will host a fun and creative interactive event. When you’re done, you’ll be sporting the best tie-dye in town. |
| June 16 | LGBTQ Empowerment and Support. Our External Affairs Team has gathered the esteemed leaders from PFlag, The Trevor Project, Encircle and LGBTQ Technology Institute for a discussion about the importance of empowering our youth. |
| June 21 | Gender Equality in the Workplace for the AAPI and LGBTQ Community. This is a dual ERG open discussion event, hosted by PRISM and PACE, highlighting the experiences of LGBTQ women in the workplace. |
| June 24 | Proud Parents - Featuring Free Mom Hugs. Join this discussion with special guest Tami Erwin, EVP & Group CEO—Verizon Business Group, about the dynamics of relationships with parents. Free Mom Hugs‘ Founder Sara Cunningham will be on hand to discuss ways for allies to care for LGBTQ people in non-ideal relationships with their parents. |
| June 29 | Two Spirit Conversation. Employee resource groups Verizon Prism and NAV co-host a conversation about two spirit identities. |
