Global organization Out and Equal, that advocates for LGBTQ+ workplace equality, has awarded Medtronic its New Employee Resource Group (ERG) of the Year Award in recognition of the Medtronic's bold efforts to create an inclusive environment.
Celebrating impact of Medtronic's PRIDE Network
Out & Equal’s Outie Award acknowledges the work of the Medtronic's PRIDE Network, which currently supports more than 8,000 LGBTQ+ employees and their allies in more than 50 countries.
The Medtronic PRIDE Network was launched in 2019 and worked quickly to make a difference - including helping expand the company’s self-identification campaign to include sexual orientation and gender identity.
“At a time when the rights of the LGBTQ+ community are at risk, employers have an important role in safeguarding our community,” said CEO of Out & Equal, Erin Uritus. “We are grateful to Medtronic for their exemplary leadership in creating inclusive workplaces where everyone belongs.”
“We are so proud of the accomplishments of the PRIDE Network [...] Our members have worked tirelessly to build an inclusive workplace where everyone feels like they belong, are respected, and feel valued for who they are,” said PRIDE Network co-chair, and Medtronic Vice President of Transformation, Global Regions, Shawn Monaghan. “The work the PRIDE Network does benefit everyone, everywhere, every day. And we’re just getting started.”
Giving underrepresented employees a voice
The roots of the PRIDE Network first sprouted in 1994 - the year two Medtronic employees in Minnesota quietly came out to each other in search of mutual moral support, and formed a group called Gay Employees of Medtronic (GEM).
Over time, the group evolved into the Medtronic Triangle Alliance, which eventually became the PRIDE ERG. In 2019, the ERG became a Medtronic Diversity Network, which gives employees from underrepresented populations a voice, exposure, and development opportunities on a global scale.
Fighting for LGBT+ equality
In addition to supporting employees, Medtronic also recognizes the importance of fighting for progress for the larger LGBTQ+ community. Some of the actions the company has taken include:
- Participating in the Partnership for Global LGBTI Equality.
- Signing the Human Rights Campaign’s business statement on anti-LGBTQ+ state legislation and being a member of the Human Rights Campaign’s Business Coalition for the Equality Act.
- Joining 173 companies to call on the U.S. Senate to pass the Respect for Marriage Act.
Visible workplace support for LGBT+ community
Medtronic's PRIDE Network has accomplished a great deal since its beginnings. From its annual #LoveisLove campaign to increasing its support of transgender and non-binary employees, the Network continues to find new ways to encourage and assist LGBTQ + employees and their allies.
“It’s been wonderful to see so many Medtronic employees who are visible and vocal in their support of the LGBTQ+ community over the years,” added network co-Chair Shawn. “While there is still much work to be done, we are creating a culture of belonging where employees feel comfortable bringing their authentic selves to work each day.”
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Disclosure: Where Women Work researches and publishes insightful evidence about how its paid member organizations support women's equality.