The Human Rights Campaign Foundation (HRC) – one of the largest LGBTQ and civil rights organizations in the world – today named BD to its 2020 Best Places to Work for LGBTQ Equality list of recommended employers.

For the third year in a row, BD has earned a perfect score (100%) on the organization’s Corporate Equality Index, which is the national benchmarking tool on corporate policies and practices pertinent to LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer) employees. Notably, each year HRC raises the bar on what it takes for companies to earn a perfect score, and each year, BD has met or exceeded these benchmarks.

Employers featured in this report have taken steps to ensure greater equity for LGBTQ workers through non-discriminatory company policies and workforce protections, access to equitable benefits for workers and their families regardless of sexual orientation or marital status, and transgender inclusive health care coverage. Further, companies must create a supportive and inclusive culture for their LGBTQ workforce through the implementation of best practices, the establishment of diversity program groups, and LGBTQ-focused outreach efforts. 

At BD, we demonstrate our commitment to civil and human rights and support the company’s mission celebrating the diversity of our associates and recognizing it as a true asset to the organization. In 2019, we expanded our commitment to the LGBTQ community through our participation in LGBTQ-focused recruiting programs, such as Out for Undergrads, ROMBA (Reaching Out MBA), and Lesbians who Tech. These programs help us access incredible talent that values our commitment to inclusion and diversity.  BD joined the HRC Business Coalition for the Equality Act and engaged in advocacy efforts to advance the legislation that would create clear, consistent protections to prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity in employment. We also flew the PRIDE flag at many of our U.S and European sites to honor pride week and celebrate our LGBTQ colleagues. 

Within BD, our LGBTQ Associate Resource Group, OPEN (Out and Proud Employee Network), is a leading force in embracing and inspiring the LGBTQ community, helping associates thrive both in the workplace through education, celebratory events, opportunity and belonging, and outside the workplace through acts of service and corporate advocacy.  With active chapters in 18 BD locations in the United States, Europe, Asia and South America, these local LGBTQ organizations within BD help extend BD’s reach into the community through involvement in locally organized Pride parades and other inclusive programs.

As an organization, we will continue to make strides towards equality.  We are also focusing on the standards of conduct put forth by the UN and continuing to collaborate with partners like the HRC and other LGBTQ-inclusive organizations that strive to make our communities more welcoming to all.