Many Bay area businesses have been striving to achieve equality in the workplace.
Tech Data Corporation in Pinellas County recently hosted it’s first ever employee run spectrum to raise awareness about LGBT and ally issues in the workplace.
“This is a very welcoming, very inclusive organization and absolutely the place that top talent should look to be working,” John Tonnison, Exec. VP and CIO of Tech Data said.
Nadine Smith with Equality Florida said having meetings like these send a stern message that discrimination won’t be tolerated.
“People don’t want to go to a place that is hostile to them, hostile to their families or sends the message that my uniqueness will actually put me at a disadvantage,” Smith said.
Tech Data isn’t the only Bay area Business promoting diversity. Kelly Flannery, CEO and President of the South Tampa Chamber of Commerce is part of the organization called “Equality Means Business," which is made up of several companies that have adopted non-discrimination policies.
"You want a diverse group of people. You don't want to discriminate against a specific segment because it would hurt our workforce overall," Flannery said.
The goal is to improve Florida’s reputation as an inclusive place to live, work, and visit. Michael Tomar, Executive Director of the Tampa Museum of Art, said he wants any and every employee to feel welcomed.
"Everybody has a place here at the Tampa Museum of Art and their differences, the way that they express themselves the way they've been raised in their belief system is respected and valued," Tomar said.
To learn more, or if you’re interested in joining “Equality Means Business”: http://equalitymeansbusiness.org/home.