The Human Rights Campaign Foundation has released its 2025 Corporate Equality Index (CEI), and the results show incredible progress in workplace equality. This year’s report reveals that 765 major U.S. businesses earned top scores of 100 percent – a dramatic 28% increase from last year.
What exactly is the Corporate Equality Index?
Think of it as the gold standard for evaluating corporate policies and practices related to LGBTQ+ workplace equality. It measures everything from non-discrimination policies and employee benefits to inclusive workplace culture and corporate social responsibility.
As HRC President Kelley Robinson explains:
“For 22 years, the CEI has served as corporate America’s roadmap for LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion—not as a political statement, but as a framework for building stronger, more competitive businesses where all talent can thrive.”
The MidSouth LGBT Chamber of Commerce is sharing this vital resource because we believe our community members deserve to know which employers are truly committed to creating inclusive workplaces. Whether you’re job hunting, considering a career change, or simply want to support businesses that align with your values, the CEI provides invaluable insights into companies’ commitment to LGBTQ+ equality.
Some key findings from this year’s report:
- 1,449 companies participated in the survey
- These businesses employ over 22 million workers across the U.S.
- 92% of participating companies provide LGBTQ+ employee resource groups
- 87% offer transgender-inclusive healthcare coverage
Want to dive deeper into the data?
The full 100+ page report is available for download at https://reports.hrc.org/corporate-equality-index-2025.
As your Chamber, we’re committed to promoting workplace equality and connecting our members with organizations that share these values. The CEI is more than just a rating system – it’s a roadmap for creating the kind of inclusive business environment that benefits everyone in our community.
Remember, when businesses embrace equality, everyone wins.
The data consistently shows that inclusive workplaces drive innovation, attract top talent, and deliver better business outcomes. That’s something worth celebrating – and supporting – in our MidSouth business community.
