Dayton is a really LGBT friendly city according to the Human Rights Campaign’s Municipal Equality Index (MEI). Modeled after HRC’s Corporate Equality Index, the MEI looks at the openness and inclusion of a city as a place to live and as an employer. This is Dayton’s first year to be included in the index.
The city scored an 85 after it was ranked in Non-Discrimination Laws, Relationship Recognition, Municipality as Employer, Municipal Services, Law Enforcement and Relationship with the LGBT Community. Dayton earned bonus points for inclusive workplaces, services for LGBT youth, homeless and elderly and for having openly LGBT members elected as municipal leaders. Dayton earned bonus points for openly LGBT elected or appointed municipal leaders, inclusive workplaces, providing support and services to LGBT youth, LGBT homeless, LGBT elderly and those living with HIV/AIDS. Making Dayton’s final score a 95. Dayton ranked third among six Ohio cities scored, following Columbus and Cincinnati and above Cleveland, Akron and Toledo.
“I am proud that Dayton welcomes the LGBT community,” Mayor Whaley said. “Everyone can find a place to thrive in Dayton. We are a patchwork of many cultures, generations, races, genders and experiences. That combination of ideas and experiences is part of what makes Dayton a diverse and strong community.”
See the full breakdown of Dayton’s ratings here.
