For the second consecutive year, Dayton has received a perfect score on the Municipal Equality Index of policies and practices supporting equality on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.
The annual Municipal Equality Index is compiled by the Human Rights Campaign, the nation’s largest LGBTQ advocacy organization. The 2017 index rates a total of 506 cities, based on 44 criteria.
Dayton’s perfect score reflects its anti-discrimination ordinance, inclusive employment policies, law enforcement practices, municipal services and equality leadership. The 101-point raw score exceeds the index’s 100-point maximum.
Dayton was also named an All-Star City for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender rights. The All-Star status results from earning a score higher than 80 despite being located in a state without protections for LGBTQ people.
“Dayton continues to be a leader in supporting equality, often exceeding state and federal protections,” said Mayor Nan Whaley. “Our commitment to diversity and inclusion is the right thing to do and is essential to Dayton’s future growth.”
“Dayton believes its diverse tapestry of residents, from all kinds of backgrounds, has been key to its successes in the past and will be key to its future success. Being a welcoming community makes Dayton a better place for everyone,” said Kery Gray, Director of City Commission Office and the Mayor’s Liaison to the LGTBQ community.
The full report and Dayton’s scorecard are online at hrc.org/mei.
