The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) announced this morning that The City of Frederick earned a perfect score of 100 for its ongoing efforts to ensure equal treatment of members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) community.
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 Frederick is one that values and accepts the individuality of every resident. This score highlights the fulfillment of our promise to be a city that works for everyone," said Mayor Michael O’Connor. “We also know we still have work to do and aim to continue our efforts in collaboration with many local organizations focused on equity."
As suggested by the City’s scorecard, The City of Frederick earned points for the inclusion of the Contractor Non-Discrimination Ordinance in the City’s Purchasing Policies, which highlights the ongoing effort to support minority and women-owned business enterprises in the City. As an employer, the City’s offering of transgender-inclusive healthcare benefits contributed to the high marks.
In the category of Municipal services, the City of Frederick earned extra “flex” points for providing services to people living with HIV or AIDS. The City’s strong leadership around LGBTQ equality, including legislative and policy efforts, help round out this year’s score.
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 #MEI2021 report, visit hrc.org/mei.