REI's Position on Marriage Equality

REI is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment where we work and play. We embrace inclusion because it helps us advance the co-op’s core purpose – to inspire, educate and outfit for a lifetime of outdoor adventure and stewardship – encouraging people of all backgrounds to fully enjoy the outdoors. Consistent with this commitment, REI is taking a position in support of marriage equality.

When REI engages in public policy discussions, the focus is primarily on expanding access to places where people can enjoy the outdoors, as well as on issues that impact the competitiveness of our business. The national debate over marriage equality challenged us to decide whether our commitment to inclusion extends to supporting a more inclusive, equal civil society. The co-op believes that taking a position in support of marriage equality reinforces our commitment to inclusion, nurturing a foundation that treats committed, loving couples equally under the law.

As a national retailer, we know that not all of our members, customers or employees will agree with this view. Despite our differences, we hope that this ongoing conversation is held in a mutually respectful way.

Editor's note: To learn more about LGBTQ+ equality and inclusion in the outdoors, click here.

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