City Earns Perfect Score on Human Rights Campaign's Municipal Equality Index for 11th Year in a Row

City of St. Petersburg Earns Perfect Score on Human Rights Campaign's Municipal Equality Index for Eleventh Year in a Row

Nov. 21, 2024 - For the eleventh consecutive year, the City of St. Petersburg has scored a perfect 100, plus 5 bonus points, on the 2024 Human Rights Campaign's annual Municipal Equality Index (MEI) - the only nationwide assessment of LGBTQ inclusion in municipal law, policy, and services. The 2024 MEI evaluates more than 500 cities on how inclusive municipal laws, policies, and services are of LGBTQ+ people who live and work there.

The City of St. Petersburg's Municipal Equality Index Scorecard can be found at stpete.org/LGBTQ.

St. Petersburg Mayor Kenneth T. Welch emphasized, "We are pleased to be recognized by the Human Rights Campaign 11 years in a row, but we understand that perfect scores on the Municipal Equality Index do not happen by accident. Intentional inclusivity and inclusive progress are part of what we build upon every day, from policy to practice. Our city's growth is stronger when everyone plays a part in it, and we remain dedicated to advancing equity for all."

Cities are rated based on non-discrimination laws, the municipality as an employer, municipal services, law enforcement and leadership on LGBTQ+ equality. This year's top score reinforces St. Petersburg's commitment to inclusivity, safety, and equity for all residents and visitors.

Eric Vaughan, the City's LGBTQ+ Liaison, expressed his pride in this accomplishment, "Living and working in a city as welcoming and inclusive as St. Petersburg fills me with so much pride," said Vaughan. "Our 11th year of a perfect score reflects our policies and the spirit of St Pete-a city where everyone can feel at home and empowered to be themselves."

For more information on the HRC's MEI, visit hrc.org/mei.

For more information on the City's LGBTQ commitment, visit stpete.org/LGBTQ.