Adam�s Mark has stated that the allegations contained in the Justice Department suit are untrue, and that the company does not condone or knowingly practice discrimination. �We are committed to satisfying the Justice Department�s concerns, to demonstrate our absolute commitment to diversity and equality, and to make any changes in our policies that may be necessary to ensure that all guests are treated with respect, regardless of race, color or creed,� said Kummer.

Under the proposed agreement, Adam�s Mark would:

• Continue to adhere to all applicable laws.
• Enhance existing corporate policies and practices to ensure non-discrimination against any guest.
• Contract with an outside organization to oversee implementation of the agreement, including 

• establishing additional complaint mechanisms for guests; 
• investigating and resolving any discrimination complaints; 
• creating a diverse �secret shoppers� program to ensure equal treatment of guests; and 
• enhancing current diversity training programs for employees.

• Keep thorough records of compliance and submit periodic reports to the Department of Justice.

Independent of the proposed settlement agreement, Adam�s Mark announced last week it has retained Project Equality to conduct an employment evaluation and provide diversity training for all employees. The evaluation will cover such areas as hiring, promotions and salary structures to ensure that equal employment opportunity laws are being met and to determine if the company is meeting its own diversity goals. These evaluations have already begun and will be completed in about 2 ½ months. Project Equality will submit its findings and any recommendations for changes to the company.

�This will be one of the most comprehensive evaluation and training programs we have provided throughout our 35-year history,� said the Rev. Kirk Perucca, president and chief executive officer of Project Equality.  �Adam�s Mark has willingly opened every one of their properties to us for our review. The goal is to make sure all employment practices are based on equality, without regard to race, color, gender or disability,� said Carlean Miller, equal employment opportunity director for Project Equality.
 

Mission Statement of Project Equality  (Adopted 11/22/96)    Project Equality Inc. is a national program sponsoredby religious, non-profit and for-profit organizations, toassist employers to achieve equal employmentopportunities for all people.  VALUES  DIVERSITY We promote diversity on every level of employment as well as on boards, governing bodies, and inacademic and religious institutions.  RESPECT We believe in individual worth and are open to each person's truth.  INTEGRITY  We commit ourselves to provide service with honesty, fairness, and competency.  VISION We imagine a future where all persons have equal employment and social opportunity.  EQUALITY We advocate for the equality of all persons.

Project Equality�s diversity training program will include all 9,000 corporate and hotel employees. The intensive, full-day course will promote equal treatment for all guests, raise awareness of non-discrimination laws, and discuss the barriers to diversity and how to overcome them.