The source of all those sugar-y cereals and easy-to-fix meals has just become our new best friend in Minnesota. The head honchos as General Mills corporation have proclaimed their support for marriage equality and have released a statement opposing the constitutional ban that is going on the state’s November ballot.
Ken Charles, vice president of diversity and inclusion
“We do not believe the proposed constitutional amendment is in the best interests of our employees or our state economy—and as a Minnesota-based company we oppose it,” the foodmaker released.
The Golden Valley-based company is notorious for its equality in the workplace, with the vice president of diversity and inclusion, Ken Charles, even having testified before the U.S. Senate to support the Employment Non-Discriminatory Act. The executive wrote a heartfelt post on the company’s blog regarding their recent stance:
“I am proud to see our company join the ranks of local and national employers speaking out for inclusion,” Charles wrote Thursday. “We do not believe the proposed constitutional amendment is in the best interests of our employees or our state economy—and as a Minnesota-based company we oppose it. We value diversity. We value inclusion. We always have … and we always will. We’re proud of our workplace, and we’re proud to be a leader for diversity and inclusion in our community. For decades, General Mills has worked to create an inclusive culture that welcomes and values the contributions of all.”
Announcements from major corporations can have a huge impact on a state’s marriage equality movement. Last winter in Washington, Starbucks’ equality stance riled supporters and opponents alike, and helped drive the force that eventually led to the law being passed (though it’s since been sent to a referendum).
It’s understandably risky for a company to make such a sociopolitical statement, so when they do, it’s as sweet as Betty Crocker cupcakes.
Photo: blog.generalmills.com
