Aloha, friends (I learned that from the aforementioned vacay in Hawaii—did you miss me?!?). It’s been quite the month for high-profile nominations, from the Primetime Emmys to hopeful Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor. On the LGBT red carpet, two organizations have announced their nominations, both equally worthy of a spotlight.
On Wednesday, Out and Equal Advocates announced nominations for “The Outies,” its annual workplace awards which recognize the most significant achievements in LGBT workplace equality. There are five categories this year—two recognizing individual achievement and three recognizing organizations. Check out the nominees here. Specifically, look at the high profile companies represented in the Workplace Excellence Award, including Google and PricewaterhouseCoopers. This award recognizes an employer that has a historic and ongoing commitment to pursuing and executing workplace equality for LGBT employees, continually raising the bar of workplace equality for others to follow.
As I previously blogged, companies who recognize their LGBT employees will earn an immeasurable ROI among LGBT consumers. Just imagine the brand advocates you create by respecting your LGBT workforce, who in turn, will champion you to their own circle of friends. Just call it “Gay it Forward.” Winners will be announced on October 8 at the 2009 Out & Equal Workplace Summit in October. My biggest question—what does one wear to the Outies?
On the small business front, The National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) and Wells Fargo & Company is now accepting applications for the fifth annual NGLCC/Wells Fargo LGBT Business Owner of the Year Award, recognizing a small business owner for his/her entrepreneurial spirit and personal service to the community. In addition to a swanky black tie/black dress dinner in D.C. in November, the winner gets a cash grant of $5,000. Know a small business owner who fits the bill? Deadline is Wednesday, July 22. Get your application here.
I love that we have opportunities for both small and big companies to be recognized for their commitment to the LGBT community. Out & Equal/NGLCC—Please note that I am willing and able to either host the award ceremony, provide red carpet coverage, or serve as beautiful award presenter….
Now, let’s be real. This wouldn’t be a Murphy Friday if I didn’t discuss yesterday’s Emmy nominations. Kudos to our man Neil Patrick Harris for being named the host of the ceremony. But where was the love for Friday Night Lights?!? Am I the only person who watches that show? At least Big Love finally got some big love and recognition. Note to Emmy producers—I am also willing and able to provide red carpet coverage…
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