Businesses have played an important role in advancing nondiscrimination protections across the county because they have recognized that inclusion is the right thing to do and fairness and equality are good for business.

The quote by London Breed highlights the role of businesses in promoting nondiscrimination protections across the country. She emphasizes that many companies have embraced inclusion not only as a moral obligation—“the right thing to do”—but also as a practical strategy. According to Breed, fostering fairness and equality within workplaces and communities benefits both employees and organizations, leading to stronger, more sustainable businesses.

The origin of this statement comes from Breed’s leadership as the Mayor of San Francisco, a city known for its progressive stance on civil rights and diversity. Throughout her career, she has been an advocate for social justice, emphasizing the importance of both government and private sector contributions in advancing equality. Her acknowledgment of businesses reflects the growing trend of corporations taking public stances on issues like LGBTQ+ rights, racial equity, and gender inclusion.

By framing equality as “good for business,” Breed connects social progress with economic logic. Companies that prioritize diversity and inclusion often see improvements in innovation, employee satisfaction, and brand reputation. In contrast, workplaces that allow discrimination risk not only harming individuals but also losing talent, credibility, and long-term competitiveness.

Ultimately, Breed’s quote underscores the interconnectedness of morality and economics in advancing equality. It suggests that true progress requires alignment between values and actions, and that the private sector can be a powerful ally in driving systemic change. Her words celebrate the role of businesses in reinforcing fairness while showing that equality benefits everyone—individuals, communities, and organizations alike.