Intel’s Cross-Faith and Beliefs ERG Leaders Alliance has helped foster connection amongst faith-based employee resource groups (ERGs) since 2019, when the leaders of seven ERGs decided to meet to get to know each other better. Through their diverse perspectives, they found ways to connect and build a platform for education amongst ERGs.
The mission of the alliance is to “inspire, educate, develop, and advocate for a safe and inclusive work community that values the observance of sincerely held beliefs without imposing participation.” It showcases a commitment to inclusion and faith-based authenticity, one that has long been part of Intel’s history. Today, ERGs host many events celebrating different faiths and beliefs, often co-sponsored across the faith-based groups.
Intel’s dedication to faith-based inclusivity has not gone unnoticed. For the last three consecutive years, Intel has been recognized by the Religious Freedom and Business Foundation as one of top faith-friendly Fortune 100 companies in the world. In August 2021, CEO Pat Gelsinger and Intel’s then HR lead, Sandra Rivera, were honored with Gold Medals at the global Dare to Overcome conference for their work in interfaith understanding, religious freedom and peace.
“Intel’s faith friendliness is one of the reasons why I love working at Intel,” says May Mowzoon, the chair of the Alliance and the lead for the Baha’i ERG.
In 2021, the Religious Freedom and Business Foundation recognized Intel, stating “Intel’s inclusion of a resource group dedicated to Bahá’í believers is notable. Across the entire Fortune 200 companies, no other company provides a dedicated community for practitioners of the Bahá’í faith. By encouraging one of the smallest world religions to have their own ERG, Intel communicates that it is inclusive of all – including agnostics atheists. It also draws attention to the fact that these groups emerge from grassroots and can be increased as employee interest warrants.”
