Henkel Achieves Perfect Score on 2025 Corporate Equality Index for LGBTQ+ Inclusion
Henkel, a prominent producer of popular consumer and industrial brands such as Dial soap, Schwarzkopf hair care, all free clear laundry detergent, and Loctite, Technomelt, and Bonderite adhesives, sealants, and coatings, has earned a perfect score of 100 on the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s (HRCF) 2025 Corporate Equality Index (CEI). This index is the leading benchmark for evaluating corporate policies and practices related to LGBTQ+ workplace equality.
Henkel is one of 765 companies to receive the HRCF’s Equality 100 Award, recognizing them as leaders in LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion. The 2025 CEI includes over 1,400 companies, the largest number since its inception in 2002. Companies are rated based on key criteria such as non-discrimination policies, equitable benefits for LGBTQ+ employees and their families, fostering an inclusive culture, and corporate social responsibility efforts.
“We are honored to be recognized with the HRCF’s Equality 100 Award, which reflects our ongoing commitment to inclusion and belonging in the workplace, local communities, and with all our partners, customers, and consumers,” said Pernille Lind Olsen, President of Henkel North America.
“Henkel has a longstanding tradition of creating a culture of belonging for all employees, including those in the LGBTQ+ community and their allies. Our purpose as pioneers, dedicated to the well-being of future generations, motivates us to do what is right for our colleagues and our business.”
Henkel’s recognition stems from its proactive efforts to create a welcoming workplace environment and implement inclusive benefits and programs tailored to meet the diverse needs of its North American employees. For instance, in 2023, Henkel enhanced its parental leave policy, offering 12 weeks of fully paid time off for all U.S. employees welcoming a child, regardless of gender or family structure.
Additionally, Henkel supports a robust network of Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) with over 20 chapters and more than 2,400 employees, helping to foster a supportive community, amplify diverse perspectives, and create growth opportunities for both employees and the business.
“For decades, businesses have turned to the CEI to provide transparency and level the playing field, ensuring that LGBTQ+ individuals and their families benefit from fair, respectful, and supportive workplaces,” said RaShawn “Shawnie” Hawkins, SHRM-CP, Senior Director of Workplace Equality at HRCF.
“As corporate America’s approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion continues to evolve, the year-over-year growth in CEI participation highlights a business community that understands the value and responsibility of upholding equity and inclusion. The CEI’s work supports businesses in expanding their consumer base and attracting top talent by fostering an inclusive environment for the LGBTQ+ community.”
The results of the 2025 CEI underscore how companies are advancing LGBTQ+ friendly workplace policies and emphasize the importance of reaffirming commitments to equity in the workplace. Notably, 98 percent of CEI-rated companies now have non-discrimination protections specific to gender identity, benefiting over 22 million U.S. workers.
Click here:blank to read the full report.
Henkel is one of 765 companies to receive the HRCF’s Equality 100 Award, recognizing them as leaders in LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion. The 2025 CEI includes over 1,400 companies, the largest number since its inception in 2002. Companies are rated based on key criteria such as non-discrimination policies, equitable benefits for LGBTQ+ employees and their families, fostering an inclusive culture, and corporate social responsibility efforts.
“We are honored to be recognized with the HRCF’s Equality 100 Award, which reflects our ongoing commitment to inclusion and belonging in the workplace, local communities, and with all our partners, customers, and consumers,” said Pernille Lind Olsen, President of Henkel North America.
“Henkel has a longstanding tradition of creating a culture of belonging for all employees, including those in the LGBTQ+ community and their allies. Our purpose as pioneers, dedicated to the well-being of future generations, motivates us to do what is right for our colleagues and our business.”
Henkel’s recognition stems from its proactive efforts to create a welcoming workplace environment and implement inclusive benefits and programs tailored to meet the diverse needs of its North American employees. For instance, in 2023, Henkel enhanced its parental leave policy, offering 12 weeks of fully paid time off for all U.S. employees welcoming a child, regardless of gender or family structure.
Additionally, Henkel supports a robust network of Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) with over 20 chapters and more than 2,400 employees, helping to foster a supportive community, amplify diverse perspectives, and create growth opportunities for both employees and the business.
“For decades, businesses have turned to the CEI to provide transparency and level the playing field, ensuring that LGBTQ+ individuals and their families benefit from fair, respectful, and supportive workplaces,” said RaShawn “Shawnie” Hawkins, SHRM-CP, Senior Director of Workplace Equality at HRCF.
“As corporate America’s approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion continues to evolve, the year-over-year growth in CEI participation highlights a business community that understands the value and responsibility of upholding equity and inclusion. The CEI’s work supports businesses in expanding their consumer base and attracting top talent by fostering an inclusive environment for the LGBTQ+ community.”
The results of the 2025 CEI underscore how companies are advancing LGBTQ+ friendly workplace policies and emphasize the importance of reaffirming commitments to equity in the workplace. Notably, 98 percent of CEI-rated companies now have non-discrimination protections specific to gender identity, benefiting over 22 million U.S. workers.
Click here:blank to read the full report.
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