WASHINGTON - The Human Rights Campaign Foundation, the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, today released its annual list of "Best Places to Work for LGBT Equality." In 2009, 260 companies were awarded this distinction for their employment policies and practices that include LGBT workers. A complete list of the honored businesses is available online: www.hrc.org/placestowork.

"As our nation faces unprecedented economic challenges, people are being forced to make important decisions about their career's and livelihood. 'Best Places to Work for LGBT Equality' helps job-seekers identify the most inclusive businesses for LGBT workers," said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese. "Though equal opportunity and benefits are not the only factors that prospective employees should consider, they are vital to ensuring a business values and respects its LGBT workforce."

The "Best Places to Work for LGBT Equality" distinction is awarded to businesses that scored 100% on the HRC Foundation's 2009 Corporate Equality Index, the primary method for businesses to benchmark and evaluate their policies, practices and diversity efforts relating to LGBT workers. The index evaluates non-discrimination policies, benefits, diversity training and other internal resources for LGBT workers, as well as external support for LGBT consumers and job seekers. Released in early September, the 2009 Corporate Equality Index report is available online at www.hrc.org/cei.

The Human Rights Campaign is America's largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.