Research Shows Attacks on LGBTQ+ Rights by Gov. DeSantis and other Anti-Equality Lawmakers Has Devastating Economic and Business Consequences

Todd Sears of Out Leadership says, "There are economic consequences to discrimination and economic opportunities from inclusion. We continue to measure sustained and considerable business growth and investment in states where LGBTQ+ rights are fully embraced."

NEW YORK CITY, NY - May 19, 2023 - With the recent news that Disney has scrapped plans for a new campus in Florida citing "changing business conditions," Todd Sears, the founder and CEO of Out Leadership, the premier global LGBTQ+ organization harnessing the power of business to drive equality, today released the following statement:

"Disney's decision to not build their new campus in Florida has cost the citizens of that state 2,000 new jobs and can be directly tied to Governor DeSantis' continued political attacks on LGBTQ+ individuals, women, and people of color. Despite corporations trending decisively towards equality, these actions by Governor DeSantis, and anti-equality leaders in other states, continue to threaten businesses and subsequently their local economies.

"Since Out Leadership launched our State LGBTQ+ Business Climate Index five years ago, we have measured sustained and considerable growth in corporate investment in places where LGBTQ+ rights are embraced. Subsequently, we continue to see small pockets of the country, like Florida and elsewhere, where decisions by companies to either leave the state or limit growth in a particular location is oftentimes a direct result of a polarized, political climate related to constant attacks on LGBTQ+ equality, women, and racial equity.

"Major companies today have fully embraced equality because it's good for business, attracts the best talent, and is a long-term model for success. These multinational companies continue to relocate to places where they can recruit the best talent, not have to worry about state and local laws hindering their business' ability to achieve success. Companies simply don't want to be at odds with the business policies and practices of the state they operate in, and they certainly don't want to feel attacked by them."

Out Leadership Research shows:

About Out Leadership

Out Leadership is the premier global platform utilized for over a decade by many of the world's greatest companies, nonprofits, and governments to drive equality through business. For over a decade, Out Leadership has advocated for greater board diversity through talent development, research, thought leadership, and professional networking opportunities. To learn more visit: outleadership.com.

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