ALEXANDRIA, VA – For nine years, the Human Rights Campaign Foundation and Equality Federation Institute have released the Municipal Equality Index (MEI). According to the HRC website, the MEI measures the inclusiveness of residents in cities around the county who identify as LGBTQ+.
This year, Alexandria received a perfect score of 100 percent on the index. Only five locations earned this distinction in the U.S. Arlington County also received a maximum score.
“Alexandria strives to be a welcoming and inclusive community for everyone who lives, works and visits here,” said Mayor Justin Wilson. “We have deliberately shaped our laws and policies to provide for fair and equitable treatment for all, and we urge other employers, landlords and businesses to build on this foundation.”
Cities are rated in five categories: Non-Discrimination Laws, Municipality as Employer, Municipal Services, Law Enforcement, and Leadership on LGBTQ Equality.
In 1975, Alexandria became one of the first cities to enact a human rights ordinance in Virginia. Over the years, it has been expanded to protect more people.
“While we still have much work to do to achieve a fully equitable community, we are grateful for this national recognition that we have achieved much progress,” the mayor said.
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