Newfront, a San Francisco-based insurance brokerage, has proudly achieved a perfect score of 100 on the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s 2025 Corporate Equality Index (CEI), a prestigious benchmark for LGBTQ+ workplace equality. Joining 765 other U.S. businesses honored with the Equality 100 Award, Newfront’s recognition underscores a growing commitment to inclusivity. With a record participation of 1,449 rated companies this year, the CEI reflects a significant evolution in corporate policies promoting LGBTQ+ equality across industries.
Linde Hotchkiss, Executive Vice President at Newfront, expressed great pride in their team’s accomplishments, emphasizing the emotional impact of this achievement as a tribute to the late Brent Rineck, co-founder and supporter of Newfront’s LGBTQ+ resource group. She highlighted that this score is more than just numbers; it represents a culture of recognition and belonging where every employee feels valued and heard.
RaShawn “Shawnie” Hawkins of HRCF noted that the CEI acts as a vital tool for fostering transparency and ensuring equitable workplaces for LGBTQ+ individuals. He stressed that as discourse on corporate diversity moves forward, the increasing participation in the CEI demonstrates a commitment to enhancing equity and inclusion in the business community. The CEI not only assists companies in expanding their talent pool but also reinforces their dedication to supporting the LGBTQ+ community effectively.
The rise in CEI participation showcases how U.S.-based organizations are increasingly adopting LGBTQ+ inclusive policies. The survey has expanded significantly since its inception, which featured only 319 participants, indicating a robust trend towards more progressive workplace standards. Notably, 98 percent of businesses now have protections against discrimination based on gender identity, enhancing workplace security for millions of employees.
The Corporate Equality Index evaluates organizations based on four core criteria that include non-discrimination policies, equitable benefits for LGBTQ+ employees, fostering an inclusive culture, and corporate social responsibility. Newfront, leading the way in innovation and inclusivity, employs over 800 people and specializes in risk management and insurance across various sectors, reflecting the company’s commitment to equality not just internally but in its broad service scope.
Newfront has earned a perfect score of 100 on the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s 2025 Corporate Equality Index, joining 765 U.S. companies recognized for their LGBTQ+ workplace equality efforts. The CEI survey, with its highest participation yet, highlights the growing commitment among businesses to equitable policies. Linde Hotchkiss and RaShawn Hawkins emphasize the importance of this achievement, focusing on its implications for employee inclusion and community support.
Newfront’s achievement in the 2025 Corporate Equality Index reflects not only its internal dedication to promoting workplace equality but also the wider trajectory of corporate America towards inclusivity for LGBTQ+ individuals. The growing number of companies participating in the CEI indicates a promising future where equitable practices become standard. This evolving landscape not only empowers employees but also enriches the business community as a whole, fostering collaboration and growth.
The Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s Corporate Equality Index is an essential gauge for corporate America’s commitment to enhancing LGBTQ+ workplace inclusivity. Established to measure policies and practices across numerous companies, the CEI serves as a tool for fostering equality and promoting non-discrimination. With an impressive increase in the number of participating companies over the years, it highlights a significant culture shift toward inclusivity and respect for LGBTQ+ community members in the corporate sector.
Original Source: www.manilatimes.net
