Marriott Celebrates Love and Pride with its Associates

BETHESDA, Md., July 10, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Global lodging leader, Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE:MAR) today dedicated a special collection of photos and tributes to its own associates worldwide, celebrating their weddings and commitment ceremonies. The campaign launches with same-sex couples and will then expand, inviting all families, friends and associates to take part. These photos and tributes may be found on Pinterest, the popular social network and photo sharing platform at Pinterest.com/marriottforyou.

(Photo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130710/PH45066)
(Logo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130531/PH23900LOGO)

The new initiative, part of Marriott's "Be You, With Us," campaign, reflects the pride that Marriott takes in honoring the milestones and sharing the personal memories of its associates all around the globe, as they celebrate their own weddings, commitment ceremonies and anniversaries. The couples choosing to take part in this photo collage have done so voluntarily and last names will not be published to respect their privacy.

"As a company that embraces a welcoming culture," says Joanna Todd, Vice President, Segment Strategy for Marriott, "all of our guests and associates deserve equal respect and inclusion. That is especially true when it comes to their families and their special occasions, including weddings and celebrations."

"We know that many of our own associates are finding love, tying the knot, starting families and celebrating new recognition of their status. And while every couple is unique, there is always one constant – and that is the expression of love behind their stories." Todd added that all couples and families, not just Marriott associates, are welcome to participate and share their images.

Marriott hotels frequently host galas and events on behalf of LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) community leaders including the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), GLAAD (Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation), PFLAG (Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians & Gays), the National Center for Lesbian Rights, and Out & Equal Workplace Advocates, among others. Marriott also serves as a proud sponsor for these nonprofit organizations, and also as a supporting member of the National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, committed to diverse suppliers including LGBT businesses. Last year, Marriott's innovative LGBT marketing campaign, "Be You, With Us," was nominated by GLAAD for its prestigious Amplifier Award. (Note: To see examples of this campaign and to learn more, please visit www.marriott.com/gaytravel, available to visitors in five languages.)

Marriott has consistently been recognized for its outstanding workplace and diversity and inclusion programs.  For a comprehensive list of accomplishments, click Awards and Recognition.  In 2009, Marriott launched its web site highlighting LGBT travel and promotions, www.marriott.com/gaytravel -- which is accessible in 5 languages. Marriott CEO Arne Sorenson's LinkedIn blog relates why Marriott joined 277 other corporations to overturn the Defense of Marriage Act this year.

Visit Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR) for company information. For more information or reservations, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com.  

SOURCE Marriott International, Inc.