We believe in the power of inclusion and the importance of celebrating diversity. As we commemorate Pride Month, we are committed to supporting the LGBTQ+ community and creating an environment where all our Associates can thrive and be their authentic selves.
Here’s how we're celebrating Pride Month 2023, plus a few of our ongoing efforts to promote inclusivity.
We think it’s important to recognize #Pride. Always. It’s why we’re sharing #StoriesofPride from our Associates — their voices deserve to be heard and access to their storytelling is essential.
Our approach to inclusion is simple yet powerful. We strive to ensure every Associate feels valued and respected, both at work and in their communities. It’s meant our consistent score of 100% on the Human Rights Foundation's Corporate Equality Index(Opens a new window), something we’re proud to tout.
We’re privileged to have Associates who inspire us with their stories of resilience and empowerment. In celebration of Pride Month, we’re giving our Associates the floor and archiving some of those stories about their experience at Mars and in their own communities. Their voices are not only worth celebrating but also serve as a valuable archive for future generations.
Meet Natalie (she/her). She’s helping us share stories to break stereotypes, promote acceptance and foster understanding.
This is Ivan, and he’s a champion of inclusivity. His message for allies to the LGBTQ+ community is simple: speak up, get involved and self reflect.
Like us, Michael thinks accountability is essential. We’re committed to creating an environment — at work and in society — where people feel valued and respected, regardless of any visible or invisible differences.
Chanice's message to aspiring allies? Be open minded, listen to the community and be gentle with yourself - and with others.
To foster connections among Associates with shared interests and experiences, we encourage Associates to form and join Associate Resource Groups (ARGs). These groups provide a platform for our Associates to connect, support one another and contribute to a more inclusive workplace. We currently have 14 LGBTQ+ ARGs globally.
From Banfield's Drag Queen Story Hour to Pride chef demos and queer mental health speakers, our Associates are going all out with celebrations this year. They’ve created both in-person and virtual events to ensure ample opportunities to come together.
Looking for us during Pride? We also participate in local parades where we work and live, like Franklin, Tenn., St. Charles, Missouri, and in the New York City Pride March.
Our commitment to inclusivity extends beyond us. With our brands, we proudly partner with influential organizations such as GLAAD(Opens a new window), the Ali Forney Center(Opens a new window), Out and Equal(Opens a new window) and Stonewall(Opens a new window) in the UK, among others. Through these partnerships, we provide financial support and resources to create a more inclusive world for everyone.
Look out for SKITTLES Pride packs(Opens a new window) and KIND's Snack and Give Back Pride Bar(Opens a new window) (among others) featuring art created by LGBTQ+ creatives on limited edition packaging.
We believe in a future that embraces inclusivity. By celebrating Pride Month, supporting our LGBTQ+ Associates and partnering with organizations dedicated to equality, we strive to create a world where people can thrive. To learn more about our inclusion and diversity efforts and our recognition as one of Forbes' Best Employers for Diversity, visit Inclusion & Diversity | Mars, Incorporated.
