At American Express, Some Workers Question the Culture, Too

Diversity isn't a hollow word at American Express Financial Advisors. Of its planner recruits last year, 20% were minorities. Three of the company's six senior vice presidents are women. In the field, the firm goes out of its way to appeal to ethnic minorities and gay and lesbian investors.

To hear some female advisers tell it, though, the company isn't as progressive as it's made out to be. They have filed complaints with the courts and federal employment officials that they have been belittled, bullied and harassed on the job. All of the accusations are pending.

American Express has rejected the allegations as groundless and is seeking to dismiss them. ...