How woke is Puget Sound Energy?

Introduction

Puget Sound Energy (PSE), a utility company serving Washington State, isn’t just keeping the lights on; it’s also making waves in social responsibility. PSE has been working to align itself with key social justice initiatives, focusing on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).

But how “woke” is Puget Sound Energy? Let’s look at their financial contributions, DEI policies, training programs, support for LGBTQ+ initiatives, and marketing strategies to find out.

Financial Contributions to Progressive Causes

There is no specific public data detailing PSE’s financial contributions to progressive causes, especially in support of LGBTQ+ initiatives. Now, that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re not contributing—it just means they might be doing so quietly or through less visible channels. This lack of transparency is worth noting and leaves us wondering just how deep their commitment runs.

Prioritization of DEI Policies

One thing’s for sure—PSE is serious about diversity, equity, and inclusion. Their commitment to DEI is clear, not just in what they say but also in what they do. As PSE highlights on its official website, “PSE has laid out its DEI strategy, emphasizing the importance of creating an inclusive workplace that values the diversity of its employees.”

Their Equity Advisory Group (EAG) Meeting Summary discusses how to improve equity within the company. This shows that they’re not just paying lip service to DEI—they’re actively working to enhance their policies and practices. Plus, their commitment isn’t limited to internal policies.

Their DEI commitment extends beyond internal policies to include community engagement, where they strive to ensure that their services and operations are inclusive and accessible to all. PSE is making DEI a priority across the board.

Mandatory DEI Training Sessions

There isn’t explicit information confirming whether such training is required for all employees from research. However, given their strong DEI focus, it’s likely that training and education are part of the mix. 

Given PSE’s emphasis on creating an inclusive environment, it’s reasonable to assume that they encourage or even require some form of DEI training to ensure everyone is on the same page. Still, without concrete details, it’s tough to say how extensive or effective these efforts are.

Support for LGBTQ+ Initiatives

Much like their financial contributions, Puget Sound Energy’s direct support for LGBTQ+ initiatives isn’t well-documented. This lack of specific information makes it hard to gauge just how involved PSE is in supporting LGBTQ+ rights.

Given their broader DEI strategy, it’s fair to assume that PSE supports LGBTQ+ employees and causes.

Marketing and Branding

PSE’s marketing strategy is all about community and environmental responsibility. Their campaigns often spotlight sustainability and the importance of serving a diverse customer base. In addition, PSE has rolled out advertising campaigns to emphasize its role in promoting environmental stewardship, a smart move in today’s market where consumers are increasingly drawn to brands that care about more than just profits. This strategy aligns with the growing trend of companies positioning themselves as partners in fostering a healthier, more equitable society.

Conclusion

Puget Sound Energy is a brand that’s trying to do right by its community and employees. Their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is evident, especially in their internal policies and community engagement efforts. However, there’s still a noticeable lack of transparency in areas like financial contributions to progressive causes and specific support for LGBTQ+ initiatives.

For consumers who value transparency and want to see companies actively engaged in social justice, PSE’s efforts might feel a little under the radar. That said, the groundwork they’ve laid with their DEI initiatives and marketing strategies suggests that they’re on the progressive path, even if they’re not as vocal or transparent about their contributions as some might prefer.