Hello: T-Mobile backs marriage equality

T-Mobile USA on Aug. 21 announced the company’s endorsement of marriage equality by donating to, and supporting the efforts of, Washington United for Marriage, the bipartisan statewide coalition working to defend the state’s gay marriage law.

The law is being challenged in the Nov. 6 election by organizations such as the ultra-conservative National Organization for Marriage.

“T-Mobile has a long-standing focus on creating an inclusive workplace environment for our employees,” said Jim Alling, the company’s interim chief executive officer and chief operating officer. “Our support of this issue is a reflection of our culture, how we do business, and our belief in the fair and equitable treatment of all employees.”

Zach Silk, the campaign manager for Washington United for Marriage, said, “We are very excited that T-Mobile has decided to take this important step in endorsing our effort to approve Referendum 74. As one of the top employers in the Puget Sound area, T-Mobile’s support demonstrates a commitment to employees, customers, and communities in Washington state.”

More than 4,800 T-Mobile employees live and work in Washington State.

Other companies to back the marriage equality campaign in the state include Starbucks, Amazon, Nike and Microsoft.