May 01, 2009  |  By: Staff and Wire Reports  | COMMENTS     

CINCINNATI — Procter & Gamble, the world’s largest consumer products maker, has amended its anti-discrimination policy to include gender identity and expression.

The policy was recently amended to read: “We at P&G recognize the power that comes from people of diverse backgrounds and experiences coming together around a common goal. Our policy forbids any discrimination, harassment or intimidation because of race, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, citizenship, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, disability or other non-job-related personal characteristic. Employees are encouraged to bring questions or concerns in this area to their management. Strict disciplinary action for violations of this policy will be taken, including termination of employment.”

Procter & Gamble, which makes such brands as Bounty, Crest and Pampers, earned an 85 in the Human Rights Campaign’s 2008 Buyer’s Guide, which assigns scores to companies based on their support for the LGBT community.

A spokesperson for P&G did not immediately respond to inquiries for comment on the policy change.