Eight Florida cities received scores in the high 80s or above on the Human Rights Campaign’s annual Municipal Equality Index (MEI).
The MEI is the only nationwide assessment of LGBTQ+ inclusion in municipal law, policy and services. The 2023 MEI evaluated 506 cities on how inclusive cities’ laws, policies and services are for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) people.
The City of St. Petersburg scored 106, including six bonus points.
“Achieving a perfect score on the Municipal Equality Index for 10 consecutive years is a source of pride for all of St. Petersburg,” said St. Petersburg Mayor Kenneth T. Welch. “Not only does this accomplishment demonstrate our commitment to maintaining an inclusive environment for our LGBTQ+ community, but it shows that we embrace and affirm all residents, ensuring that our city remains a welcoming haven for everyone.” For more information on the City’s LGBTQ commitment, visit stpete.org/lgbt.
Other Florida cities receiving scores in the high 80s or above are:
- City of Fort Lauderdale (100)
- City of Hollywood (100)
- City of Miami (100)
- City of Orlando (100)
- Village of Miami Shores (92)
- City of Gainesville (90)
- City of Coral Gables (87).
For more information on the MEI, visit hrc.org/mei.
