The Stonewall organization commends the City of Columbus for once again achieving a 100+ rating on the Human Rights Campaign’s municipality equality index–the index looks at how inclusive municipal laws, policies, and services are of LGBTQ+ people who live and work here.
“Since the inception of the MEI in 2011, we have witnessed city leaders from every corner of this nation demonstrate commitment to advancing LGBTQ+ equality through both word and deed. This year, despite nearly daily assaults on the LGBTQ+ community, particularly focused on trans people, we have made progress. Remarkably, a record-breaking 129 cities, constituting over 25 percent of all MEI-rated cities, have achieved the highest possible score of 100, an increase from the 120 achieved in 2022. In 20 states, 76 cities have reached scores exceeding 85, even in the absence of non-discrimination statutes that explicitly safeguard sexual orientation and gender identity” notes HRC President Kelley Robinson.
Robinson also noted “In this challenging time of crisis, the Municipal Equality Index remains a crucial tool, enabling us to discern areas of progress and highlighting the road that lies ahead. I trust that this report will inspire local leaders, policymakers, and advocates to redouble their efforts in the relentless pursuit of comprehensive LGBTQ+ equality.”
“It is clear there is a continued commitment from Columbus’ City leadership in supporting the LGBTQ+ community here in Columbus” said Densil Porteous, Stonewall Columbus’ executive director. “Columbus earned its first 100 rating in 2013 and it is heartening to see that the City remains at that mark–even with increased parameters for engagement. As a queer centered organization we hope that as City leaders come and go the City will continue to demonstrate a commitment to members of the LGBTQ+ community in Columbus.”
Akron, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Dayton, and Dublin also earned ratings of 100.
