V&E Named a 2020 “Best Place to Work for LGBTQ Equality”

Administered annually, the CEI is a national benchmarking tool on corporate policies and practices pertinent to LGBTQ employees. V&E is among 686 companies nationwide that earned a perfect score in the 2020 report.

The CEI rates companies and top law firms on detailed criteria falling under five broad categories: non-discrimination policies; employment benefits; demonstrated organizational competency and accountability around LGBTQ diversity and inclusion; public commitment to LGBTQ equality; and responsible citizenship.

“These companies know that protecting their LGBTQ employees and customers from discrimination is not just the right thing to do—it is also the best business decision,” said Human Rights Campaign President Alphonso David.

V&E is dedicated to supporting LGBTQ workplace equality. In 1997, the firm became the first Texas-based law firm to offer same-sex partner benefits. Since then, V&E has actively championed LGBTQ attorneys and initiatives by providing gender-neutral parental leave and transgender medical coverage; an LGBTQ attorney, staff and ally affinity group; LGBTQ educational programs; LGBTQ-focused recruiting; law school prep course scholarships and Diversity Fellowships for LGBTQ students; local and national organizational sponsorships and pro bono work and volunteer support of LGBTQ organizations and individuals.

“Fostering an inclusive culture is among V&E’s core values and a key driver of the firm’s long-term success,” said V&E Chairman Mark Kelly. “We thank the Human Rights Campaign Foundation for this continued recognition and for the important work that they do to encourage the adoption of LGBTQ-inclusive policies and practices.”

The full report is available at www.hrc.org/cei.