DaimlerChrysler Celebrates Diversity Week

Week-long series of activities focus on the Company's rich cultural diversity

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Oct. 19 -- To celebrate the different talents, backgrounds, cultures and lifestyles of its employees, DaimlerChrysler has designated the week of Oct. 18-22, 2004, Diversity Week. Under the theme, "Many Talents, One Company, Winning Together," the Company will host a week-long series of activities at its Auburn Hills, Mich., complex.

"The purpose of the celebration is to build awareness and understanding of our many differences and similarities in order to foster an environment of inclusion where all employees are empowered to perform at optimum levels," said Monica Emerson, Executive Director, Corporate Diversity Office.

Tom LaSorda, Chief Operating Officer and Co-Chair of the Diversity Council, kicked off the celebration on Monday, Oct. 18, addressing employees about the role diversity plays in transforming the Company from "Good to Great."

"In an increasingly challenging and competitive industry, diversity is a critical source of strength for our company," said LaSorda. "It leads to creativity and innovation, providing a competitive advantage in a global marketplace."

Other activities during the week include a presentation on historical quilting, featuring videos and photos of the display at the Museum of African American History in Detroit; a sampling of Native American foods; and a cultural display focusing on Asian traditions, art and music. These activities are supported by the Native American, African American and Asian employee resource groups.

Employees will also have the opportunity to talk about diversity as a business imperative and the value of diversity with members of the Company's Diversity Council, which is made up of top executives from across the Company.

DaimlerChrysler's Women's Forum also will host a networking event and roundtable discussions on topics such as mentoring and career development.

The week concludes with "The Diversity Marketplace Expo," featuring art, music and cultural displays from over 30 organizations.

DaimlerChrysler's diversity initiatives have been recognized by several leading organizations including being named one of Working Mother magazine's "100 best Companies" eight consecutive years. The Company has also been honored as "Corporation of the Year" by the National Minority Supplier Development Council three times and by the Michigan Minority Business Development Council four times. Since 1983, DaimlerChrysler has been a leader in supporting minority business enterprises. Last year, DaimlerChrysler sourced about 11 percent -- or $3 billion -- of its total supplier spend from minority-owned suppliers. It has been recognized by DiversityInc. as one of the "Top 50" companies for diversity. For its supplier development program, the Company was recognized with a Mosaic Award from the American Advertising Federation.