The HRC uses the Municipal Equality Index (MEI) score to examine how inclusive municipal laws, policies, and services are of LGBTQ people who live and work in each city. The MEI evaluates 506 cities nationwide for LGBTQ inclusion based on non-discrimination laws, the municipality as an employer, municipal services, law enforcement and the city leadership’s public position on equality.
“The City of Phoenix is one that values and accepts the individuality of every resident. Earning a perfect score of 100 for the eighth year in a row highlights the fulfillment of our promise to be a city that works for everyone,” said Mayor Kate Gallego. “While we still have work to do, this announcement is cause to celebrate a win not just for Phoenix but for equality.”
Phoenix has maintained a perfect score since the expansion of the city’s anti-discrimination ordinance in 2012. The ordinance makes it unlawful to discriminate against people based on sexual orientation, gender identity or disability in the areas of employment, public accommodations, housing and government contracts.
“As a city, we have so much to celebrate with eight consecutive years of a perfect score,” said Phoenix Vice Mayor Betty Guardado. “While this is an important recognition, we still have work to do, and must continue to support the LGBTQ community to make Phoenix a safe and inclusive city for everyone.”
“A perfect score for the city would not be possible without the consistent, hard work of many,” said Councilmember Debra Stark. “This work takes the form of partnerships, LGBTQ liaisons for city departments, and an important non-discrimination ordinance that the city upholds to protect our LGBTQ community members. I’m extremely proud to represent this diverse city that holds equality for all to the highest standard.”
“Year after year, this perfect score is an example of Phoenicians embracing and celebrating our city’s diversity,” said Councilmember Laura Pastor. “Phoenix’s broad diversity is what makes our city a wonderful place to live and work for everyone.”
“I am grateful for the work of the Human Rights Campaign and for their work on the LGBTQ Municipal Equality Index to hold cities accountable,” said Councilmember Carlos Garcia. “While our perfect score is great progress, there is still more work to be done in the fight for equality for the LGBTQ community. Our LGBTQ residents need to be centered in city programs and projects moving forward.”
As a national lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer civil rights organization, HRC’s goal is to ensure that all LGBTQ people, and particularly those who are trans, people of color and HIV+, are treated as full and equal citizens across the country and around the world.
To access the full #MEI2020 report, visit hrc.org/mei.
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