City Earns 100 on 2023 MEI, Affirming Leadership in LGBTQ Rights and Services
By Dolores Quintana
The City of West Hollywood has achieved a perfect score of 100 on the 2023 Municipal Equality Index (MEI) by the Human Rights Campaign, solidifying its status as a national leader in LGBTQ inclusivity. The MEI, evaluating 506 cities nationwide, assesses the inclusiveness of laws, policies, and services for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) individuals.
West Hollywood earned commendable points for specific services targeting LGBTQ youth, seniors, and the homeless, as well as support for those living with HIV/AIDS and the transgender community. Recognition was extended to facilities, employee domestic partner benefits, and openly LGBTQ-elected municipal leaders.
Launched by the Human Rights Campaign in 2012, the MEI annually rates cities based on their commitment to LGBTQ inclusivity. West Hollywood’s consistent 100+ score places it at the forefront of municipalities in the nation, reflecting its longstanding dedication to LGBTQ rights.
The MEI score considers non-discrimination laws, relationship recognition, employer fairness, municipal services, law enforcement, and community relationships. Detailed information is available on the HRC website at www.hrc.org/mei.
Since its incorporation in 1984, West Hollywood has been a trailblazer in LGBTQ advocacy. A 2019 survey revealed that 43 percent of residents identify as LGBTQ, emphasizing the city’s significance in the LGBTQ community. The city has played a pivotal role in national discourse on LGBTQ issues and was the first to establish a domestic partnership registry and offer benefits to same-sex couples.
As the largest civil rights organization for LGBTQ Americans, the Human Rights Campaign boasts over 1.5 million members and supporters. Established in 1980, HRC advocates for LGBTQ rights, mobilizes grassroots actions, strategically supports fair-minded individuals and educates the public on LGBTQ issues.
