Roger-Luc Chayer, selon MyGwork.com (Image : AI / Gay Globe)
Young generations place great importance on diversity and inclusion policies
We often talk about employers’ attitudes toward people from LGBTQ+ communities, but much less frequently about the behaviours of future employees and university graduates, as well as their expectations toward their future employers.
A new study from myGwork reveals that 79% of LGBTQ+ students and graduates would refuse to work for an employer where they could not openly express their identity, while nearly half say they have witnessed discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity in their academic or professional environments.
This study shows that younger generations deeply value respect for all individuals in the workplace, and that DEI programs are not only useful for LGBTQ+ people, but also for other workers, who see them as an indicator of how seriously a company takes inclusion when deciding where to apply.
What is DEI?
The acronym DEI, standing for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, refers to diversity, equity and inclusion policies implemented in companies, universities, and various organizations. These programs aim to foster a respectful work environment that reflects different social, cultural, and identity realities.
In practical terms, DEI policies may include anti-discrimination measures, more inclusive recruitment initiatives, training on bias and workplace respect, as well as protections for historically marginalized groups, including LGBTQ+ people, visible minorities, and people with disabilities.
International companies applying DEI policies
Several major international companies apply — or have applied — diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies, particularly in the technology, finance, luxury, consulting, and consumer goods sectors.
Among the companies most often cited for their DEI programs are Microsoft, Accenture, Intel, PepsiCo, Sodexo, LVMH, Verizon, and PayPal. These companies have implemented inclusive hiring programs, LGBTQ+ employee resource groups, pay equity policies, and training on bias and discrimination.
The World Economic Forum, for example, cites PepsiCo among companies that have developed global LGBTQ+ inclusion initiatives, including allowing employees in several countries to voluntarily disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity.
In the luxury sector, LVMH states that its inclusion policy is based on several pillars, including gender equality, LGBTI+ inclusion, and cultural diversity across its houses such as Louis Vuitton, Dior, and Sephora.
Several multinational corporations have also been recognized for their commitments to pay equity, minority representation, and support for suppliers from underrepresented groups.
Some companies are scaling back DEI programs in the United States
However, since 2024 and 2025, some American companies have begun to reduce or adjust their DEI policies under political and legal pressure in the United States. Companies such as Meta, Walmart, Ford, and Boeing have been associated with a partial rollback of these programs, while others continue to publicly defend them.
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