How woke is AmerisourceBergen?

Introduction

AmerisourceBergen, which now goes by Cencora, is a giant in the pharmaceutical industry, known for its mission to improve health and wellbeing globally. They’ve recently been making waves with their strong focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).

In this review, we’ll dig deep into their policies and practices to see just how aligned they are with progressive causes and social justice.

Financial Contributions to Progressive Causes

AmerisourceBergen isn’t shy about putting their money where their mouth is when it comes to progressive causes. According to a 2017 Philadelphia Inquirer article, their PAC has been quite generous to politicians advocating for social justice, climate change initiatives, and other progressive policies. This isn’t just a side gig for them—it’s a clear part of their strategy to influence policy decisions that align with their values.

Prioritization of DEI Policies

AmerisourceBergen doesn’t just talk about diversity—they live it. They’ve been recognized by DiversityInc as a noteworthy company for diversity two years in a row.

They’ve also scored a perfect 100 on the Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index. Their DEI strategy includes a range of initiatives like employee resource groups, comprehensive training programs, and leadership development opportunities. It’s clear they’re committed to making their workplace as inclusive as possible.

Mandatory Training Sessions

All employees at AmerisourceBergen are required to go through DEI training sessions, which cover topics like unconscious bias. These sessions aim to create a more inclusive environment by educating everyone on the importance of diversity.

However, these training sessions aren’t without controversy. They often spark debates about whether promoting inclusivity might come at the expense of individual beliefs.

Free Speech Policies

AmerisourceBergen’s stance on free speech is a bit of a mixed bag. Their first-ever Diversity Officer filed a lawsuit against the company, claiming she faced discrimination and was excluded from key meetings because of her efforts to push DEI initiatives.

This case reported by Bloomberg Law raises important questions about how the company deals with differing viewpoints, especially those that challenge the DEI agenda.

Support for LGBTQ+ Initiatives

AmerisourceBergen is a strong supporter of LGBTQ+ rights. They partner with The Trevor Project, which focuses on preventing suicide among LGBTQ+ youth. They’ve also received high marks from the Human Rights Campaign for their inclusive policies.

During Pride Month, AmerisourceBergen highlights their advocacy efforts, reinforcing their commitment to creating a supportive environment for LGBTQ+ employees and communities.

Marketing and Branding

AmerisourceBergen’s marketing is all about diversity and inclusion. Their advertising campaigns showcase the synergy between different talents and perspectives, which positions them as a leader in the pharmaceutical industry. This approach not only aligns with their DEI policies but also appeals to a consumer base that values social justice and equity.

Stances on Traditional Family Structures

The company’s policies and public statements reflect a progressive stance on family structures and gender roles. Their strong support for LGBTQ+ initiatives and emphasis on diversity suggest they’re moving away from traditional family values. This progressive approach is evident in their inclusive marketing and internal policies, which aim to respect all forms of family and identity.

Criticism of Conservative Values

AmerisourceBergen’s actions and policies sometimes reflect a critical view of conservative values. Their significant financial contributions to progressive political candidates and causes, coupled with their comprehensive DEI-focused policies, suggest a corporate ethos that leans more liberal. This includes a critical perspective on traditional family structures and a strong emphasis on social justice and equity.

Conclusion

AmerisourceBergen’s robust efforts in promoting DEI and supporting progressive causes firmly position them as a leading woke brand in the pharmaceutical industry. While their initiatives in fostering an inclusive workplace are commendable, it’s crucial to consider the implications of their policies on free speech and the potential alienation of individuals with differing viewpoints. Overall, AmerisourceBergen exemplifies a strong commitment to social justice, which is evident in their financial contributions, internal policies, and public stances.