I noted then that “The company already offers protection for “gender identity and expression” and that “they were one of the first Corporations to extend benefits to same sex domestic partners“.

It seemed to me, that Microsoft had proven its position on equality in the workplace quite well.

I was also, I noted, happy to see Microsoft not taking a stand on a social legislative issue. I felt keeping businesses out of the government was a good thing.

Well, Microsoft endured a backlash from all manner of people, mostly because they were accused of caving in to a local congregation led by a nationally anti-gay rights activist. And the backlash apparently worked.

Steve Ballmer announced the following:

“After looking at the question from all sides, I’ve concluded that diversity in the workplace is such an important issue for our business that it should be included in our legislative agenda. Since our beginning nearly 30 years ago, Microsoft has had a strong business interest in recruiting and retaining the best and brightest and most diverse workforce possible. I’m proud of Microsoft’s commitment to non-discrimination in our internal policies and benefits, but our policies can’t cover the range of housing, education, financial and similar services that our people and their partners and families need. Therefore, it’s appropriate for the company to support legislation that will promote and protect diversity in the workplace.”

They caved.

I guess maybe they had to, the gay lobby beat them pretty hard according to articles. In one example:

“In late April, Lorri L. Jean, CEO of the L.A. Gay and Lesbian Center, asked Microsoft to return a civil rights award the group had given the company four years ago. ”

Maybe that was the kicker, who knows? Can’t lose our civil rights awards.