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Updated 4:20 p.m. EST
Washington state's marriage equality legislation received an extra boost today (sorry for the coffee pun!) with endorsements from Google and Seattle-based Starbucks. Details follow.
In an email from Washington United for Marriage, we learn that Google joined Starbucks to throw its weight behind equality.
Reads a statement from the group:
"We thank Starbucks, Google, Alcoa and the more than two dozen other businesses that recently came out publicly in support of marriage equality,” said Lacey All, Chair of Washington United for Marriage. “Marriage equality provides a multitude of intangible benefits to Washington businesses. Recognizing the relationships of all – irrespective of sexual orientation – means an open and innovative business climate that ensures fundamental fairness and basic civil rights for all. The addition of these companies continues to show that momentum in Washington State is on the side of equality for all Washingtonians.”
The coffeemakers had their own addition to the great news and released a statement saying:
To: U.S. partners
Date: January 24, 2012
Re: A Message from Kalen Holmes: Starbucks Supports Marriage Equality
Dear partners,
Starbucks is proud to join other leading Northwest employers in support of Washington State legislation recognizing marriage equality for same-sex couples. Starbucks strives to create a company culture that puts our partners first, and our company has a lengthy history of leading and supporting policies that promote equality and inclusion.
This important legislation is aligned with Starbucks business practices and upholds our belief in the equal treatment of partners. It is core to who we are and what we value as a company. We are proud of our Pride Alliance Partner Network group, which is one of the largest Employer Resource Groups for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) employees in the U.S., helping to raise awareness about issues in the communities where we live and work.
For the last 20 years, our benefits program has offered domestic partner benefits in the U.S. These benefits include medical, dental, vision, prescription drugs and alternative health care coverage. All partners (part-time and full-time) in all work locations, whether in a store, a roasting plant or a corporate office, adhere to the same eligibility requirements for health coverage and have access to the same comprehensive health plans.
We are deeply dedicated to embracing diversity and treating one another with respect and dignity, and remain committed to providing an inclusive, supportive and safe work environment for all of our partners.
We look forward to seeing this legislation enacted into law.
Regards,
Kalen Holmes
executive vice president, Partner Resources
Microsoft announced its support of the state's marriage equality efforts last week. On Monday we learned that Washington scored its 25th vote supporting the pending legislation, enough to secure its safe passage through the state's Senate.
(Source: Towleroad)
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