American Named Top Airline For Diversity
FORT WORTH - For the third consecutive year, American Airlines is a recipient of the Diversity Council Honors Award™ from the Association of Diversity Councils, which recognizes companies for outstanding achievements in demonstrating workplace diversity. American was the sole airline to be listed as having one of the nation’s top 25 diversity councils.
“We are extremely proud to see this recognition of our Diversity Advisory Council and the tremendous leadership it provides – not only its support of our ongoing inclusion efforts, but also in addressing business challenges,” said Lauri Curtis, American’s Vice President of Diversity, Leadership and Engagement Strategies. “We know from experience that none of us is as powerful and effective as all of us working together. While it’s important to be inclusive and value diversity because it’s the right thing to do, the results also prove that it is very good for business. Diversity and inclusion are among American’s fundamental values, and we are honored that ours is again among the nation’s top 25 diversity councils.”
Curtis noted that American strives to create an environment where each employee’s unique experience, perspectives and ideas are encouraged and valued. “At American Airlines, we are energized by our global and diverse workforce,” she added. “We are dedicated not only to advancing matters of equality and inclusion, but to supporting and celebrating them.”
The Diversity Council Honors Awards program distinguishes corporate diversity councils that lead diversity processes in organizations and demonstrate results in their workforce, workplace and marketplace. Winners’ rankings will be announced at an awards dinner and ceremony in Atlanta on April 5.
“This is the third year that American Airlines has received the Diversity Council Honors Award,” said Janice E. Bowman, Practice Leader – Association of Diversity Councils. “American Airlines is the undisputed leader in setting the standards for excellence for diversity council groups from within the air transportation industry by helping to raise the visibility and importance of the work of diversity and inclusion councils on a national level. The leadership of American Airlines is also recognized for their commitment and support of the important work and success of their council.”
A Diversity Committee within the AMR Corporation Board of Directors provides oversight of American and American Eagle Airlines diversity initiatives. Company initiatives include fostering minority business growth and supplier diversity, as well as supporting employee involvement in a broad range of diversity-related programs and organizations.
A dedicated Diversity Strategies organization leads development of diversity priorities and goals, and works with operating management to implement forward-thinking initiatives.
The company’s employees provide valuable input for business decisions through 16 Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), which reflect customers, suppliers and the community. These groups have made significant contributions across many areas of the company, from community involvement to educational functions, as well as lending their expertise to planning for international routes and helping to promote enrollment in the AAdvantageÒ program, American’s loyalty program.
The ERGs are linked by the Diversity Advisory Council, which meets regularly and promotes the company’s belief in the effectiveness of working together. Council activities and accomplishments have included:
· Collaboration with oneworld® partners to provide cultural expertise to joint business alliances
· Translations and media talent for American’s communications, marketing and advertising departments
· Ongoing support of “Operation Mobility,” which offers service improvements for customers with disabilities
· Assistance as a focus group to help develop messages tailored to specific employee and customer groups
In addition, the Council has provided cultural perspectives for updates to American’s uniform and appearance standards, and offered presentations to flight attendant groups regarding faith-based traditions.
American also has strong partnerships with national and local advocacy organizations that promote equality and advancement for under-represented groups.
