UP, Amtrak earn top ratings as 'best places to work' for LGBTQ+ equality

Union Pacific Railroad has received a perfect score from the Human Rights Campaign on its 2022 “Best Places to Work for LGBTQ+ Equality” list, which recognizes leading U.S. corporations for their policies, practices and benefits pertaining to LGBTQ+ people.

UP is the only Class I to receive a 100% rating, after having received a 95% rating in 2021, UP officials said in a press release.

The list shows 842 companies received a 100% rating in 2022. In order to do so, companies must meet the index’s criteria for workforce protections of sexual orientation and gender identity and expression; provide inclusive benefits and health plans; and support an inclusive culture, corporate social responsibility and responsible citizenship.

UP has nine employee-led employee resource groups that promote a diverse and inclusive work culture. The groups are open to all employees from traditionally underrepresented groups. UP also operates BRIDGES, an LGBTQ+ employee network that helps advance policies regarding the community.

"Our 100% score reflects the hard work we've undertaken to better align our policies and programs with our railroad’s values," said Debra Schrampfer, UP's assistant vice president and chief diversity officer, in a press release.

In addition, Amtrak scored a 90% rating on the index, which recognized a total 1,271 companies that promote LGTBQ+ friendly workplace policies. The national passenger intercity railroad increased its commitment to fostering a diverse workplace in 2020 and currently has seven employee resource groups, including Express Pride for LGBTQ+ employees and allies.

"This acknowledgment is the result of our efforts to make all employees feel valued and respected. We are honored to join the growing list of companies that strive to champion members of the LGBTQ+ community," said Qiana Spain, Amtrak's executive vice president and chief human resources officer.