Southwest Airlines Community

  Corazόn@SWA Leaders Chuy and Robert highlight the rich significance of their Hispanic heritage, which centers around a deep tradition of family, food, and music. This occasion not only celebrates these vibrant aspects of their culture but also provides an opportunity to appreciate cultural differences, embrace commonalities, and learn from one another. ... View more

      Able@SWA Leaders Charles and Tanya celebrate Disability Pride Month and share why they take pride in their unique differences, highlighting how these differences make us stronger and drive innovation. By celebrating diverse abilities, we cultivate an inclusive culture that empowers every Employee to engage fully and contribute meaningfully. ... View more

Clockwise from left to right: BEAT@SWA Black History Month Celebration, Women@SWA Women Empowered Event, Military@SWA Military Appreciation Month Event, RAPID@SWA AAPI Culture FestivalAt Southwest Airlines, our goal is to foster a Culture of Belonging based upon the principles of equity and inclusivity for all Employees. We are committed to a workplace where all Employee are valued for their individuality, respected for their unique background and skills, and appreciated for their contributions to our overall success.   We appreciate that our Employees take great pride in celebrating what is important to them, particularly as it relates to our seven Cultural, Heritage, and Pride months. So far in 2024, we've celebrated four months and are excited for more upcoming celebrations during the remainder of the year! Appreciating the uniqueness of our Cohearts, including those who are part of the LGBTQ+ community this month, aligns with our commitment to creating a work environment that is inclusive of ALL Employees.         The mission of Out & Proud@SWA Employee Resource Group (ERG) is to bring representation to the LGBTQ+ community and empowering Cohearts to be their authentic selves. Out & Proud@SWA Leaders Darr and Domenic share the significance of finding community and support at Southwest, which helps to create a Culture of Belonging.   ... View more

        Military Appreciation Month is an opportunity to recognize and honor Employees who are both current and Veteran members of the United States Armed Forces. It’s also a time to appreciate military spouses and families of those who have served. Our Military@SWA Employee Resource Group (ERG) provides a community of support by connecting active-duty military members, military Veterans, and Cohearts. Watch Military@SWA Leader, Scott, speak to the importance of remembrance, sacrifice, and building camaraderie through human connection. ... View more

      The mission of R.A.P.I.D.@SWA (Resilient Asian & Pacific Islander Descendants & Allies) Employee Resource Group (ERG) is to build a community where Employees can identify with and celebrate Asian American & Pacific Islander culture. Leader of R.A.P.I.D.@SWA, Julia, shares about the rich and diverse history of Asian American & Pacific Islanders and how resiliency has helped shape their community.   ... View more

The purpose of our Southwest Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) is to deliver value by organizing programs and events that recognize and celebrate the unique identity of our Employees. This value is not only found in networking and professional development but also in supporting the diverse communities we serve. Understanding the importance of community involvement, our Corporate Responsibility Team donated $2,500 to each of our ERGs to support the organizations that matter most to them.     During Women’s History Month in March, our Out & Proud@SWA and Women@SWA ERGs hosted a Feminine Care Product Drive in the spirit of giving back. Throughout the month, Employees were encouraged to donate feminine products to support women’s shelters throughout the United States. Donation boxes were shared at our Headquarters location as well as many of our airport locations. Employees also had the option to purchase items via an Amazon Wishlist.     Thanks to the generosity of our Employees, we received over 18,000 individual items, including feminine products, toiletries, and socks. These items will be donated to multiple women’s organizations, including Austin Street Center, Union Rescue Mission, Shared Housing Center, Inc., and the USO. A special thanks to our Provisioning Team, who provided boxes for the drive, as well as our vendor Bunzl USA, who donated more than 4,000 feminine products. The drive's success shows that our Employee Resources Groups are another great way to get involved and put your Heart in Action through service to others.   ... View more

      Women@SWA, our Women Employee Resource Group (ERG), is focused on making a positive impact in the lives of women at Southwest Airlines through professional development, leadership building, support, and mentorship. Watch as Women@SWA Leaders Kimberly and Mary share the importance of celebrating women’s accomplishments and how Women’s History Month provides the opportunity to honor women—past, present, and future. ... View more

B.E.A.T.@SWA (Black Excellence Advancing Together) is our Black Employee Resource Group (ERG) at Southwest. Their mission is to recognize and celebrate Black culture and leverage those experiences to make their members feel appreciated, seen, and cared for. Black History Month is no exception—a time to honor the contributions that Black Americans have made throughout American history. Watch B.E.A.T.@SWA Leaders Marques and JKB reflect on what Black History Month means to them and share about the community and connection they found through their ERG.   ... View more

Southwest Airlines was recently named a “Best Place to Work for Disability Inclusion” and awarded the top score on the 2023 Disability Equality Index ®  for the fourth consecutive year. Launched in 2015 as a joint initiative by Disability:IN and The American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD), the Disability Equality Index is the most robust disability inclusion assessment tool in business. Each company receives a score from 0 to 100, with those earning 80 and above recognized as “Best Place to Work for Disability Inclusion.” We acknowledge that a score of 100 doesn’t convey perfection, and we won’t stop our efforts to increase inclusion in the workplace.   The Disability Equality Index is a benchmark of steps Southwest takes toward creating a workplace where People feel a sense of belonging. Our goal to create a more welcoming, diverse, inclusive, and safe workplace is constantly evolving. To learn more about our commitment to our Employees’ experiences, read our DEI Report: swa.is/OneReport.   We have Careers with Heart.           Talent Acquisition Team Leader Charles Mason is one of many Southwest Employees proud to bring his background and diverse perspective to his work. In his role, he supports Candidates’ journeys and embraces their unique stories. For Charles, “Everyone has such a unique story to tell, and we just need to only stop and really listen." Charles is also a co-chair of our Able@SWA Employee Resource Group, whose mission is to ensure an equitable and inclusive Culture at Southwest Airlines where Employees with disabilities can participate fully and meaningfully. The group focuses on four pillars: connection, cultivation, communication, and community.   We’re also committed to bringing in unique, new talent. One program dedicated to diversifying our People is the Summer Campus Reach Neurodiversity Internship Program. This internship is designed for college students with autism spectrum disorder seeking experience in our Technology Department. The program offers work experience, career coaching, and mentorship opportunities. Hear from a former Neurodiverse Campus Reach Intern and current Associate Software Engineer, Monique, about her experience in the internship program and “making a positive impact with the support of those around you.”   Our recognition in the Disability Equality Index is because of the dedication of our People and our Culture of caring. Do you bring something unique to the table? Check out how to land a career with Heart: swa.is/careers and join our Talent Community at swa.is/TalentCommunity.     ... View more

At Southwest Airlines, we’re celebrating our cultural, heritage, and pride months this year by focusing on the diverse partnerships and programs that help accelerate social, environmental, and economic advancement in our communities.   October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month, an opportunity to reflect on how far we’ve come at Southwest—and as a community—advancing inclusion for people with disabilities. We’re passionate about creating awareness and acceptance of individuals with disabilities because disability awareness and education are integral to what we do across the Company.   Southwest Airlines has an Accommodations Team that primarily focuses on supporting Candidates during the hiring process and Employees year-round so they can bring their whole self to work each day and succeed in their roles. We’re committed to helping individuals with disabilities participate in the workforce and ensuring equal opportunity to apply and compete for jobs. This Team also works directly with Employees who may need reasonable accommodations, and they serve as a resource regarding disability best practices.   Molly, Lauren’s trained medical service dog, on a flight.Lauren B., Customer Support & Services Representative, connected with the Accommodations Team seeking her trained medical service dog, Molly, to join her at in-person Company events. After following the appropriate channels, she received approval for the accommodation, making Molly one of our cutest Cohearts! Molly and Lauren captured this fun photo with Absence Management Manager Anne H., the assigned Accommodations Case Manager who worked with them on this accommodation, while attending the Inclusion Summit in-person. The purpose of the Inclusion Summit is to increase diversity, equity, and inclusion acumen; foster a sense of belonging; and build authentic relationships.    Molly, Lauren, and Anne meeting at the Inclusion SummitWe’re excited to recognize National Disability Employment Awareness Month and celebrate our incredible Employees at Southwest Airlines!   ... View more

At Southwest Airlines, we’re celebrating our cultural, heritage, and pride months this year by focusing on the diverse partnerships and programs that help accelerate social, environmental, and economic advancement in our communities.   This Hispanic Heritage Month, we’re honored to highlight Hispanic and Latino-focused organizations and partners that are helping shape and make a positive impact in their communities.   TELACU Education Foundation TELACU college graduates For more than a decade, Southwest Airlines has been the “Official Airline of the TELACU Education Foundation” and has enabled both Scholars and Staff to take advantage of invaluable opportunities to which they would not otherwise have access. Scholars use Southwest Airlines roundtrip e-passes to tour college campuses and to travel to and from prestigious out-of-state universities. Staff also utilize e-passes to attend important conferences and training sessions and meet with prospective partners across the nation and beyond.   Cesar Chavez Service Clubs Group of students from the Cesar Chavez Club visiting Washington, D.C. Southwest Airlines has been a core supporter and partner of the Cesar Chavez Service Clubs for many years. Every Spring, a group of middle and high school “Chavistas” make a trip to Washington, D.C. to learn firsthand about our nation’s history. For most of the Chavistas, this is their first time on a plane trip, made possible by roundtrip travel donated by Southwest Airlines.   Hispanic Women’s Network of Texas Southwest Airlines supports the Hispanic Women’s Network of Texas (HWNT), a nonprofit statewide organization established in 1986, whose purpose is to promote the advancement of women in public, corporate and civic life through education, personal and professional development. Since its inception, members continue to establish programs designed to cultivate the interests of Hispanic women. Through networking and professional development, members help each other reach goals, promote businesses, and contribute support and resources to elevate the Hispanic community.   Puerto Rican Arts Alliance  The Puerto Rican Arts Alliance (PRAA) is a vibrant, 25-year-old music and arts nonprofit organization that develops culturally enriching and transforming programs, performances, exhibitions, and events inspiring 30,000 people annually while encouraging future generations to grow appreciation for Puerto Rican heritage and culture. Southwest Airlines supports the PRAA in their mission to provide music education programs to school-age children from the Chicago Public Schools and create a safe space to gather within the community.      These organizations are just a few of the community partners we support during Hispanic Heritage Month and throughout the year. Share in the comments how you give back and put your Heart in action!   ... View more

At Southwest, we believe in Loving People, building resilience, and living responsibly by investing in diverse partnerships and programs that help accelerate social, environmental, and economic advancement in our communities.   As we celebrate cultural, heritage, and pride months this year, we are focusing on how we serve our diverse communities. This LGBTQ Pride Month, we’re proud to highlight organizations that give back to the LGBTQ community and make a positive difference.   The Turtle Creek Chorale (TCC) is the 7 th highest in organizational volunteer hours in 2022.     The Mission of the Turtle Creek Chorale is to Entertain, Educate, Unite, and Inspire. Formed in 1980 by 30 men, the Turtle Creek Chorale has grown to more than 250 dues-paying members who contribute over 100,000 hours annually to rehearsals, performances, community outreach, and educational workshops.   TCC reaches beyond its subscription concerts with more than 30 benefit appearances across the Metroplex and Texas annually. The TCC is the most recorded male chorus in the world with 38 albums and two feature-length documentaries in public distribution with one receiving an Emmy Award. Each year, TCC donates over 10% of its concert tickets to arts groups, youth groups, senior citizens, and persons living with HIV/AIDS. TCC regularly supports our non-profit community through the donation of concert tickets for silent auctions and fundraisers throughout the Metroplex.   One of the ways our Employees give back to the communities we serve is through volunteerism. Through our Tickets for Time program, Employees can earn tickets that are given to the nonprofit organizations for which they volunteer. The TCC has used their Tickets for Time tickets to bring guest artists to Dallas to perform with the Chorale, staff travel, and fundraising.   Equality California Institute   The mission of Equality California Institute is to bring the voices of LGBTQ People and allies to institutions of power in California and across the United States, striving to create a world that is healthy, just, and fully equal for all LGBTQ People. Equality California Institute advances civil rights and social justice by inspiring, advocating, and mobilizing through an inclusive movement that works tirelessly on behalf of those the organization serves.   Southwest is proud to be the official airline sponsor of all five Equality Awards, supporting their series of Equality Awards events throughout the state which honor the inspirational leaders and outstanding allied organizations whose selfless work contributes to creating a world that is healthy, just, and fully equal for all LGBTQ People.   Other partners that help us celebrate LGBTQ Pride Month include:   NGLCC   The NGLCC is the largest advocacy organization dedicated to expanding economic opportunities and advancements for LGBTQ People, and the exclusive certifying body for LGBTQ-owned businesses.   North Texas Gay Lesbian Bisexual Transgender Chamber of Commerce   Since 2005 the North Texas Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Chamber of Commerce has been the premier business organization for the LGBTQ community in North Texas. The Chamber is focused on the economic vitality of our area, our community, and the success of our members. We work to improve the economic vitality of our region and support the positive attributes of a diverse workplace, supply chain, and community.   Texas Pride Impact Funds Texas Pride Impact Funds inspires giving and investment to secure equitable opportunities that serve and enrich the lives of LGBTQ Texans for generations to come.   The Montrose Center   The Montrose Center envisions a healthier society marked by permanent, positive changes in attitudes and behaviors toward the LGBTQ communities, and the ability of all LGBTQ individuals to realize their fullest potential.   These organizations are just a few examples of how we support the LGBTQ community during Pride Month and throughout the year. Share in the comments how you give back and put your Heart in action! ... View more

One student team's civic project for the Asian Pacific American Leadership Institute's Youth Leadership Academy was to organize and recruit for a College Application Workshop, targeting high school students who would be the first generation to attend college. This photo shows APALI students leading breakout groups to address topics including "Successful and Unsuccessful UC essays, Prompts, and Topics" and "Applying for Financial Aid". At Southwest, we believe in Loving People, building resilience, and living responsibly by investing in diverse partnerships and programs that help accelerate social, environmental, and economic advancement in our communities.   Two partners who demonstrate our principles in the AAPI community are the  National Asian/Pacific Islander American Chamber of Commerce and Entrepreneurship and Asian and Pacific Islander Americans (APIA) Scholarship Fund. These organizations champion the AAPI community by providing resources, equipping leaders, and uplifting the people who are making a difference, and we’re honored to be a part of their mission.   National ACE Group of women receiving Southwest Airlines sponsorship plaque at the National Ace Lunar New Year Reception. National ACE, the National Asian/Pacific Islander American Chamber of Commerce and Entrepreneurship, works to improve the overall economic, political, and social well-being of the AAPI community. They help grow businesses and advocate for business interests at the federal and local levels. In 2022 alone, National ACE distributed 217 grants to AAPI small businesses!   Southwest also proudly sponsors National ACE as it brings together business owners, entrepreneurs, corporate leaders, and government officials from across the country. As the official airline of the organization, we provide roundtrip travel for business owners to attend conferences and regional trainings to grow their businesses.   APIA Scholars Group of students at the APIA Scholars Dinner.   APIA Scholars is the Asian & Pacific Islander American Scholarship Fund and it supports first-generation AAPI students. They provide mentoring services and leadership training to help Scholars transition from the classroom to the workforce. APIA Scholars provides resources to increase access to higher education while promoting academic, personal, and professional success. The organization has awarded scholarships to 7,200 students since its founding in 2003!   Southwest supports their programming and provides roundtrip travel for scholars to visit home to see family while pursuing higher education. We’re proud to remove the barrier of travel so students can stay connected with their families and communities while gaining an education.   Other partners that help us celebrate Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month include: Asian Corporate and Entrepreneur Leaders (ACEL) Southwest supports their mission to bring together Asian American professionals and provide opportunities for their success through leadership development, career advancement, and community impact. Center for Asian Americans United for Self-Empowerment Inc. (CAUSE) CAUSE connects their Leadership Academy for Students program participants to AAPI leaders in political, corporate, and nonprofit sectors. Southwest’s donation creates opportunities to bring AAPI advocates together and build solutions for community challenges. The Center for Asian Pacific American Women (CAPAW) CAPAW has a long-standing fellowship program since 1996 called APAWLI for AANHPI women to expand their leadership skills with an approach of developing the whole person. Southwest is the official airline of the organization and supports their Unleash the sHERO in You Fellowship Programs. Asian Pacific American Leadership Institute APALI programs give civic leadership training especially in the underrepresented leadership of the government, nonprofit, education, and business sectors. Southwest is a long-standing partner of more than 10 years and has most recently supported them with donated travel for giveaway use at events. These organizations are just a few examples of the community partners we are working alongside to celebrate AAPI month. Share in the comments how you lead with Heart!       ... View more

    The vision of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) at Southwest is to cultivate a diverse and inclusive experience for all our People to thrive. We’ll continue our focus to fuel ongoing momentum to operationalize DEI in our processes and practices to achieve systemic and sustainable change.   In honor of Celebrate Diversity Month, we’re proud to share that we’ve received two awards recognizing the supportive workplace we provide for our Employees. Newsweek named Southwest Airlines to their America’s Greatest Workplaces for Diversity List, and Latino Leaders Magazine named us one of their Best Companies to Work for Latinos 2023.*   We’re grateful for our People and their impact on our Company. We’re committed to creating an inclusive environment for our Employees.   We know the importance of working toward long-term changes, and we want to share some progress updates we’ve made toward our DEI goals.   Employee Resource Groups Recently, we introduced Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) to promote inclusivity and help our People take pride in their identity, culture, and personal values. Southwest Employees form and organize ERGs around a significant, specific, and shared dimension of diversity or identity.   Southwest Employees are encouraged to join one (or more!) that resonate with them even if they don’t share in the dimension of diversity or identity.   Engaging our Community Partners At Southwest, we’re proud to support and create valuable connections to the communities we serve. We’re expanding our efforts through our Destination 225° pilot pathway program. In 2022, we expanded Destination 225° to include two more university partners—Texas Southern University, a Historically Black College or University (HBCU), and Angelo State University, a Hispanic-Serving Institution in San Angelo, Texas. We’re thrilled to work alongside our University Partners and continue to look for opportunities to reflect the communities we serve.   Additionally, through April 28, 2023, Southwest Airlines, in partnership with the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU), is accepting applications for the ¡Lánzate!/Take Off! Higher Education Travel Award Program helping Hispanic college students travel home to their families.   These are just a few of our 400+ partnerships, supporting impact across our diverse communities. With these partnerships, we can champion meaningful relationships, impactful communities, and diverse employment opportunities.    Our Leaders are committed to equitable hiring practices and creating an inclusive workplace that values the unique perspectives and abilities for all of our People. Our very own Director of Community Outreach, Laura Nieto, was named to Latino Leaders Magazine 100 Latinas Edition 2023 List. Laura leads with Heart and demonstrates the importance of recognizing and celebrating diversity within the Company and across our communities.   We founded our Company on the principle of putting People first, and we’ve never wavered from that commitment. That means all People. We’re excited to continue embracing all People in the Southwest Family through our current initiatives and future growth!   *The recognition from Newsweek came from a large-scale employer study and determined a score based on several factors, including 350,000 company reviews. Newsweek selected the top 1,000 companies across 34 industries that participants identified as respecting and valuing different kinds of people in the workforce. Latino Leaders Magazines determined their list based on the company’s diversity and inclusion strategies and development. ... View more

To round out Women’s History Month, we’re excited to share that Southwest Airlines is one of America’s Greatest Workplaces for Women 2023 by Newsweek!   Our People are our biggest asset, and with women making up 44% of our Employees in 2022, it’s important to advocate for the women who support our airline on the ground and in the skies.   In addition to supporting the women already a part of the Southwest Family, we’re paying it forward by working to inspire the next generation of aviators.     Southwest is proud to support Girls in Aviation Day events in cities nationwide in partnership with Women in Aviation International (WAI). We also proudly sponsor women-focused nonprofit organizations throughout the country that focus on important matters like women’s equality, education, leadership and career development, entrepreneurship, public leadership, and creating equitable workplace environments, to name a few.   Through those long-term investments in the communities where our Employees and Customers live and work, our community partners can make lasting, positive impacts that benefit women. We achieve this through work with community partners like Texas Women's Foundation, National Association of Women Business Owners, Women Impacting Public Policy, and Women's Foundation of California, to name a few.   The recognition from Newsweek comes from a sample survey of over 37,000 women in the United States who work for large companies employing at least 1,000 people. Participants evaluated companies across 34 industries based on work-life balance, sustainability and awareness, compensation and benefits, corporate culture, and more.   As a Company committed to its People, we’re honored to be on the list of companies that foster a supportive and safe work environment. We’re grateful to be named to the list while recognizing the importance of staying diligent about creating a work environment without gender inequality.     Our women Employees have an immeasurable impact on our Company, and we’re dedicated to continuing to create a work environment that is fun and welcoming and encourages every Employee to grow and learn.    While Women's History Month takes place in March, we’re committed to supporting the women of Southwest Airlines and those in the communities we serve all year long. We’re excited to be recognized for our workplace environment, and we look forward to seeing the impact women have on our Company—and the world—in the future!     ... View more

Women’s History Month is a time to highlight and celebrate the contributions of women—past, present, and future. In March 1980, President Jimmy Carter declared that March 8 was officially the start of National Women’s History Week, which Congress declared National Women’s History Month by 1987. Women’s History Month is a dedicated month to reflect on the often-overlooked contributions of women to United States history.   This month also allows us to raise awareness of the societal issues that still impact women today. Southwest Airlines proudly sponsors women-focused nonprofit organizations throughout the country that focus on important matters like women’s equality, education, leadership and career development, entrepreneurship, public leadership, and creating equitable workplace environments, to name a few. Through those long-term investments in the communities where our Employees and Customers live and work, our community partners can make lasting, positive impacts that benefit women.   Generation W Since 2019, we’ve partnered with Generation W, a nationally recognized nonprofit organization for women of all ages whose mission is to “educate, inspire, connect, and fuel the power of women’s leadership.” Southwest Airlines supports Generation W’s annual event taking place later this month. The theme is “Positive and the Possible,” which inspires women and girls to take a fresh look at the world around them and find ways to elevate themselves and each other.      Hispanas Organized for Political Equality (HOPE) We’re proud to be recognized as the official airline partner for Hispanas Organized for Political Equality (HOPE), a nonprofit organization committed to ensuring awareness of Latinas through leadership, advocacy, and education. Southwest Airlines supports HOPE’s key events, such as Latina Action Day, Latina History Day, their Annual Awards Dinner, and the HOPE Leadership Institute, which helps train Latinas in vital advocacy skills, enabling them to create fundamental change within their communities.   Sistabiz Global Network Sistabiz Global Network is an organization that focuses on Black women entrepreneurs by providing them with the training, coaching, virtual co-working, strategic planning resources, and the community they need to be successful. Southwest Airlines is a proud sponsor of Goal Digger, their annual business planning retreat for Black Women in business.   Helping Hands for Single Moms We are honored to partner alongside Helping Hands for Single Moms, an organization whose mission is to assist low-income, single-mom families as mothers attain post-secondary financial independence and a positive family legacy through various programs and benefits.   Women Employed Women Employed (WE) relentlessly pursues equity for women in the workforce by affecting policy change, expanding access to educational opportunities, and advocating for fair and inclusive workplaces so that all women, families, and communities thrive. They recently celebrated passing paid sick leave for all Illinois residents, which is a huge win for the organization's efforts. Southwest Airlines is a supporter of their workforce development programs and advocacy efforts, which helps make life better for millions of working women.   International Women’s Air & Space Museum The mission of the International Women's Air & Space Museum is to collect, preserve, and showcase the history and culture of women in all areas of aviation and aerospace, educate people of the world about their contributions, and inspire future generations by bringing the history to life. Southwest supports initiatives and programming, including their new “Quest for the Stars” exhibit highlighting women who participated in the early space program.   Looking for other ways to get involved locally? We also support other women-focused organizations, including:  Hispanic Women’s Network of Texas (AUS) Women’s Foundation of Arkansas (LIT) Women’s Foundation of California (OAK) Girl Scouts San Diego- Imperial Council Inc. (SAN) MANA de San Diego (SAN) Members of the MANA Team   Through our Community Outreach efforts, we have the privilege of giving back to the diverse communities we serve by working with community partners such as the women-focused organizations we shared above to accelerate social and economic advancements. ... View more

This Black History Month, we are honored to highlight Southwest Airlines’ impact of investing in partnerships that help advance the education and empowerment of the Black community.   We are proud to partner with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), such as Texas Southern University and Paul Quinn College, to invest in workforce development programs that introduce students to diverse career opportunities in the aviation industry.   Texas Southern University   In April 2022, we welcomed Texas Southern University (TSU) as a university partner in Southwest Airlines’ First Officer development and recruitment program: Destination 225º. TSU is the first HBCU to join Destination 225º and provides a pathway for qualified collegiate aviators to join the Southwest Airlines Team as professional Pilots.   Paul Quinn College   Last year we announced a partnership with Paul Quinn College to become the College’s first official airline and a member of the school’s celebrated Urban Work College Program. The program provides students with the opportunity to gain real-world work experience and is the only minority-serving, federally-recognized work college program in America. This partnership will include dedicated, paid internships along with ongoing educational opportunities.   At Southwest Airlines, we also understand the importance of investing in our youth as they represent the future as it relates to careers in aviation, aerospace technology, and STEM. Community programs such as Tuskegee NEXT and Boys in Aviation Day provide opportunities to inspire the next generation to pursue careers in aviation.   Tuskegee NEXT   Since 2021, Southwest Airlines has partnered with Tuskegee NEXT by supporting programs such as the Summer Aviation Program, Aviation Fellowship Program, Aviation Day with Discovery Flights, and Aviation training for students across America. Last summer, we introduced their students to Southwest with a tour of our campus, networking session, and discussion on topics such as DEI, internships, and recruiting.   Boys in Aviation Day   In October 2022, Southwest Airlines partnered with the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. Guide Right Program and the National Black Coalition of Federal Aviation Employees to host 50 students for our first Boys in Aviation Day. This event allowed young boys to learn about the many career opportunities at Southwest and tour different areas such as Network Operations Control (NOC), Tech Ops hangar, and training facilities for Pilots.   Additional organizations that Southwest Airlines partnered with this year include the Organization for Black Aerospace Professionals (OBAP), the National Association for Black Accountants (NABA), and the Black Marketing Association of America (BMAA).   We look forward to continuing these impactful partnerships and volunteer opportunities this year. ... View more

Sept. 15 marks the first day of Hispanic Heritage Month, which recognizes and celebrates the contributions and influence of Hispanic Americans to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States. This month-long celebration reminds us of the importance of taking time to learn, appreciate, and embrace one another.   Miami Employees Betty, Jonathan, and Lina help us kick off this Hispanic Heritage Month as they share what their culture means to them and how their diverse Hispanic roots influence their interactions with Customers. Their shared passion for family translates into treating our Customers with love and making everyone feel right at home. It’s the vibrant and diverse experiences of our Employees that are the Heart of our inclusive culture.     Southwest Airlines is proud to recognize Cultural, Heritage, and Pride holidays throughout the year. These include nationally observed holidays and months of celebration that honor our Employees’ diverse backgrounds, the diverse communities we serve, and our Company's community-giving pillars.   We’re excited to announce the recent launch of our Diversity tees, lanyards, and pins, which recognize the various cultural and heritage moments. These are now available for purchase at Southwest ® the Store. ... View more

Since the inception of Southwest Airlines, we’ve had a passion for putting People first. From our revolutionary beginning, through unparalleled growth and great success, we’ve always focused on People. As Southwest continues to evolve, we dedicate ourselves again to The Golden Rule—to behave respectfully and to work in ways that reflect and embrace how People want to be treated. We’re committed to providing our Southwest Family with a work environment where they can be themselves and be recognized for the unique perspectives they each bring forward.   Diversity, equity, and inclusion aren’t just buzzwords—they’re woven into the way we run our business, and they’re reflected in our world-famous Culture. This is why I’m excited to announce that Southwest Airlines recently earned two distinguished employer awards in recognition of our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).   Disability Equality Index Last week, Southwest received a top score on the Disability:IN ® 2022 Disability Equality Index for the third consecutive year. The Disability Equality Index is the world’s most comprehensive benchmarking tool for the Fortune 1000 and America’s top 200 revenue-grossing law firms (Am Law 200) to measure disability workplace inclusion.   “By rethinking traditional hiring processes at Southwest Airlines and providing customized support, we can remove barriers that may otherwise limit individuals from fully showcasing their strengths, abilities, and potential,” said Lindsey Lang, Vice President of People at Southwest Airlines.     Best Employers for Diversity For the fifth consecutive year, Forbes also recently recognized Southwest as a Best Employer for Diversity 2022. The Best Employers for Diversity evaluation was based on four different criteria: direct recommendations from employees asked to give their opinions on a series of statements regarding age, gender, ethnicity, disability, LGBTQIA+, and general diversity in their current workplace; indirect recommendations from participants who work in the respective industry at other employers; diversity among top executives/board; and diversity engagement indicators.     We’re focused on ensuring an environment that encourages our Employees to be their authentic selves as they work to connect our Customers to the People and places important in their lives.   Fostering an Inclusive Workplace Both of these awards reflect our Company’s founding principle of putting People first. We believe in providing every single one of our more than 61,000 Employees an inclusive and welcoming environment where they’re valued for their unique talents, skills, abilities, and perspectives. We’re committed to ensuring each and every Employee feels respected, appreciated, and supported so that they can bring their whole selves to work each day and succeed in their roles.   We’re proud to be recognized as a top employer in both of these areas and acknowledged for our commitment to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. Our DEI journey is an ongoing and intentional commitment. Learn more about the value we place on our People by visiting Southwest’s One Report and DEI Report.     To learn more about career opportunities at Southwest, visit Southwest ® Careers. ... View more

      As we close out Pride Month, an observance and celebration of the LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, & Queer/Questioning) community, we hope you have felt encouraged to learn about the LGBTQ+ Pride experience.   Pride can mean different things to different People. For some it’s a moment of reflection, for others it may be a moment of celebration. It represents resilience, belonging, and hope. But at the core, Pride represents genuinely loving yourself and being happy with who you are. At Southwest Airlines we are PROUD to foster a Culture where we embrace authenticity with civility, respect, and Hospitality.   ... View more

      June is Pride Month, an observance and celebration of the LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender & Queer/Questioning) community. We are honored to recognize the impact LGBTQ+ people have had in the world and uplift their voices.   This month Southwest Airlines continues to highlight LGBTQ+ Employees as they share their individual Pride stories, specifically the importance of Allyship. Being an Ally means starting with the basics of LUV, which is core to our Company Values and Culture at Southwest Airlines. Allyship means making genuine connections and not being afraid to speak up and show support. The core of Allyship starts with an open heart and an inclusive spirit.   ... View more

“Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion” receive significant public attention these days, but this is nothing new for Southwest Airlines. Southwest’s Story of Inclusion is founded on access, unity, and acceptance. We’re committed to our diversity journey, we value equity among our Employees, and we drive for an inclusive workplace and business. We’ve now put in writing what diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) means at Southwest and our commitment to each and every Employee and Customer. At Southwest Airlines, we truly believe it takes every single one of us to make us who we are.         At Southwest Airlines, our Heart represents our identity. It’s more than the symbol of our brand. It’s who we are. We’re a Company of People. People representing diversity of culture, background, experiences, and viewpoints. Each of our Employees bring their own talents, creativity, and individuality. And together, we make Southwest the incredible Company it is. Our People are the Heart of Southwest Airlines.   Inclusion has always been at the Heart of Southwest. Our Company was founded on the principle of putting People first, and we’ve never wavered from that commitment. That means all People. We’re committed to being a place where Employees feel welcomed and encouraged to bring their whole selves to work without fear of hate, racism, discrimination, harassment, intolerance, disrespect, or injustice. We understand that in order for every Employee at Southwest to thrive, we must foster an environment of impartiality, fairness, representation, and balance.   We’re committed to listening to our People—Employees and Customers—and doing our part to drive meaningful change, both inside and outside the Company. We’re also dedicated to working alongside our diverse suppliers and community partners to champion DEI in the communities we serve. Like many other companies, we’re on a journey and we recognize that there is always more we can do to make our work environment even better, even more accepting. We’re committed to enhancing our DEI efforts with a particular focus in the areas of talent, Culture and Values, brand and reputation, and communication. In order to reach our goals and aspirations, we must allow for vulnerability, engage in courageous conversations, and listen to our Employees, Customers, and Communities.   Grounded in The Southwest Way, it takes every single one of us to build diverse, equitable, and inclusive experiences. We must embrace and live out our Values, every day, in every way.   We each succeed when we bring our best selves to work. We succeed when we embrace civility and treat each other with respect and Hospitality. Southwest succeeds when we stay agile and focused on being excellent in all we do. It takes every single one of us. ... View more

At Southwest Airlines, we are proud to celebrate our diverse workforce and put People first, which is why we are committed to LGBTQ+ equality and inclusion. The Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s Corporate Equality Index has recognized us as one of the Best Places to Work for LGBTQ+ Equality, an achievement we celebrate not only with our LGBTQ+ Employees, but all of our Southwest Family! This is the eighth consecutive year Southwest has been named among the Best Places to Work for LGBTQ+ Equality. Left to Right Back Row: Manzel Champman, John Chaussee, Wilfredo Garcia, Navid Ladha. Front Row: Heather Raleigh, Kris Stroud We asked some of our Employees what this recognition meant to them and here’s what they had to say: “I am delighted to work for Southwest Airlines, an enduring Best Place to Work for LGBTQ Employees. I am proud to be an Ally to my LGBTQ fellow Employees.”—John Chaussee, Senior Director Security & NOC, Safety & Security “As a Leader for Southwest Airlines, it gives me a huge sense of pride knowing that I am free to show up to work every day as my authentic self. Not only do I have the support of the Company behind me, but I am able to lead the way for others in the LGBTQIA+ community by holding respectful conversations, sharing knowledge, and creating safe spaces for other Employees. I value the fact that Southwest Airlines continues to commit to our mission of recognizing the benefits of creating an inclusive and diverse workforce.”—Heather Raleigh, Baltimore Manager Ramp & Operations V, Ground Operations “Southwest being named a ‘Best Place to Work for LGBTQ+ Employees’ shows they do not just ‘talk the talk’, but ‘walk the walk’ by acting on it. Southwest Airlines has taken the critical steps to ensure policies, benefits, and practices are implemented for greater equity for LGBTQ Employees and their family members, and that means the world to me.” —Manzel Chapman, Associate Recruiter, People “I am so proud to know that I (we) can express how wonderful we all are.”—Wilfredo Garcia, Flight Attendant “I feel so proud to work at a company such as Southwest Airlines that offers some of the most inclusive practices and benefits I’ve seen for LGBTQ+ people including gender affirmation, adoption assistance, and so much more! I truly feel included, seen, and celebrated every day in so many aspects of our Company Culture. This is such well-deserved recognition for Southwest Airlines from the HRC and it makes my role within diversity recruitment even more fulfilling.”—Navid Ladha, Talent Acquisition Business Consultant, People “I’m so grateful for this honor and to be a part of this amazing Company. Our Heart and pride shine bright. This shows me that no matter who you are or how you identify; you will feel the LUV, day or night!”—Kris Stroud, Quality & Development Specialist, Customer Experience & Customer Relations The words of our People say best just how much this honor means to us. Every single one of our Employees is important to us at Southwest Airlines and we will always strive to be a place where everyone feels welcomed, embraced, and able to bring their whole self to work. ... View more

The following blog is co-authored by Juan Suarez, Sonya Lacore, and Elizabeth, Bryant   “I don’t consider myself a victim because I’m no longer being victimized. I don’t consider myself a survivor, because I am more than surviving. I consider myself a liberator. One who has broken free from the chains of her past and is determined to make a difference in the lives of others.” Those poignant words belong to Shamere McKenzie, CEO of the Sungate Foundation.   Shamere McKenzie, CEO of the Sungate Foundation Today, on World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, Southwest Airlines is announcing an expansion of our efforts to combat Human Trafficking. World Day Against Trafficking in Persons is a day established by the United Nations to raise awareness of the plight of Human Trafficking victims and to promote and protect their rights.   The theme of World Day Against Trafficking in Persons this year, “Victims’ Voices Lead the Way,” puts victims of Human Trafficking at the center of the campaign and highlights the importance of listening to and learning from survivors of Human Trafficking. Our work with long-standing community partner Polaris—a leader in the fight to end Human Trafficking—and our investment of e-passes (complimentary air travel) directly helps Human Trafficking survivors.     Additionally, we’re introducing the following efforts to combat this important issue:  Southwest Airlines is adding lavatory placards in all aircraft promoting the Human Trafficking Hotline and the immediate support which our Flight Attendants can provide. Adding lavatory placards in all aircraft promoting the Human Trafficking Hotline and the immediate support which our Flight Attendants can provide. Promoting the Points for a Purpose Program and how Rapid Rewards Members can support our community partner, Polaris, on Southwest.com and our Inflight Entertainment Portal.  Customers can visit Southwest.com to donate their Rapid Rewards points. Adding a Human Trafficking message and Polaris website on Southwest’s Inflight Entertainment Portal, beginning Aug. 1.   As Shamere shares, “When a survivor calls and says they need help now and they can get access to jump on a plane immediately; that is lifesaving.” That’s why a Rapid Rewards donation from a Customer is so vital to victims of Human Trafficking.   Southwest Airlines has a long-standing commitment to being a good global citizen. Our Company recognizes the importance of being aware of societal issues impacting communities around the world, especially those directly related to the airline industry—including Human Trafficking. We’re pleased to share that we’re expanding our efforts to combat Human Trafficking. As an airline, it’s important we do our part to understand this issue, be able to identify indicators of Human Trafficking instances, and advocate for those who may be in a difficult situation.   Southwest Airlines is proud to support multiple nonprofit organizations whose efforts help with the rescue, recovery, and restoration of Human Trafficking survivors. These organizations include Polaris, United Against Human Trafficking, Rethreaded, Project Concern International, Ho‘ōla Nā Pua, and Ayuda.   These efforts are just the latest steps in the Company’s fight against Human Trafficking. Since 2019, Southwest Airlines has publicly reiterated our commitment to bringing greater awareness to Human Trafficking. These efforts have included:   Launching an online curriculum that educated Employees on how to better understand what Human Trafficking is, identify Human Trafficking instances, and how to take action if they suspect a potential Human Trafficking situation. Specialized training for our Customer-facing Employees (Flight Attendants, Pilots, and Ground Operations Employees).   We are thankful to the many Employees who have worked tirelessly to make these efforts a reality. Their time and attention to this important issue has the potential to truly change lives. ... View more

  In 2019, Southwest Airlines joined the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Business Coalition for the Equality Act and joined an amicus (“friend of the court”) brief that was filed with the U.S. Supreme Court. The Equality Act was a proposed federal law that would provide the same basic protections to the LGBTQ community as are provided to other protected groups under federal law.   Yesterday, history was made when the Supreme Court of the United States ruled 6-3 that the Civil Rights Act (CRA) protects LGBTQ Employees from discrimination. Previously, Title VII of the CRA banned employment discrimination on the basis of "race, color, religion, sex, or national origin." Now, the definition of sex includes gay, bisexual, and transgender workers. That means it's illegal for employers to fire workers on the basis of their LGBTQ status.   While this doesn’t change anything for Southwest since our current internal discrimination policy already included these protected categories, we are pleased that LGBTQ employees are protected under the law throughout the nation, no matter where in the U.S. they’re employed.    Southwest is a People-centric Company built by love, with a 49-year history of living by the Golden Rule, treating others with respect, and embracing diversity. We were proud to earn a perfect score on the HRC’s Corporate Equality Index for the fifth consecutive year in 2019.    I hope you’ll join us in celebrating this wonderful news!   Best, Juan Suarez Managing Director, Deputy General Counsel ... View more