Nationwide Chief Executive Officer Kirt Walker shared the following announcement with associates on Thursday evening, June 17, 2021, regarding the declaration of Juneteenth as a federal holiday:

To: Nationwide Employees

Today is a historic and momentous day as the President officially declared Juneteenth a federal holiday, commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. As the bill was signed, I couldn’t help but remember our companywide Unity Day, celebrated together almost exactly one year ago as we committed to do even more in the social justice space. For myself and many others, the day made a lasting impact. I would offer that throughout my entire tenure at Nationwide, that day was by far the most impactful.

At Nationwide, we value people and we recognize that our differences make us stronger. We are united in creating a workplace where all associates feel valued and respected. In alignment with our values and inclusive culture, and the opportunity created by the addition of Juneteenth as a federal holiday, I’m proud to share that we are adding a “Unity Day” holiday to our Nationwide paid time off benefits.

Unity Day, which takes effect immediately, is an inclusive day for you to celebrate and reflect on what is meaningful to you. For many, we anticipate it will be a religious or cultural day of importance. Each calendar year, including this year, you’ll have the opportunity to choose which day will be your Unity Day holiday. My ask is that on Unity Day, you take a few moments to think about supporting and uplifting each other as allies, friends and colleagues. Let’s also continue to educate ourselves and embrace new perspectives as we advance diversity, equity and inclusion.

We’ll communicate details about how to record your holiday in Workday in the near future. In the meantime, I invite you to participate in Nationwide’s Juneteenth program scheduled for 11 a.m. ET tomorrow (Friday).

Thank you for living our values and continuing to stand together as One Nationwide.

Kirt Walker, CEO