Retailer extends protections for gays and lesbians

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Wednesday, July 2, 2003 | 9:50 a.m.

BENTONVILLE, Ark. -- Wal-Mart Stores Inc., the nation's largest private employer, will now include gays and lesbians in its antidiscrimination policy.

Spokesman Tom Williams said the company listened to employees and groups advocating the inclusion of gays and lesbians in antidiscrimination policies. The policy change "unfolded by itself," and last week's U.S. Supreme Court decision striking down anti-sodomy laws was not a factor in the decision, he said.

The change means nine of the 10 largest Fortune 500 companies now have rules prohibiting discrimination against gay employees, according to the Human Rights Campaign. The one exception is Exxon Mobil Corp.