The Human Rights Campaign has released the very first rating system of LGBT inclusion in municipal law, the Municipal Equality Index. Eleven cities scored 100% or more, those being Seattle, San Francisco, Boston, Philadelphia, Portland it’s not too surprising.
The MEI rates cities based on 47 criteria falling under six broad categories: non-discrimination laws; relationship recognition; the municipality’s employment practices; inclusiveness of city services; law enforcement; and municipal leadership.
Key findings from the MEI create a snapshot of LGBT equality in 137 municipalities of varying sizes drawn from every state in the nation – these include the 50 state capitals, the 50 most populous cities in the country, and the 25 large, 25 mid-size, and 25 small municipalities with the highest proportion of same-sex couples. Seattle and other 100-point cities serve as shining examples of LGBT inclusivity, with excellent policies ranging from non-discrimination laws, equal employee benefits, and cutting-edge city services.
So be sure to check your area and know what your score is. If it’s below 100%, now you know where to push your local government to support you. Knowing specifically what to fight for is part of the battle for equality. Get organized and help make a difference! Click here to check out the report.
