For the 11th consecutive year, St. Petersburg has achieved a perfect score on the Human Rights Campaign’s (HRC) 2024 Municipal Equality Index (MEI). This recognition underscores the city’s dedication to fostering an inclusive environment for the LGBTQ+ community. The MEI remains the only nationwide evaluation that assesses the inclusion of LGBTQ individuals in municipal laws, policies, and services.
St. Petersburg’s commitment to equality is evident in its year-round Pride Month celebrations, support for LGBTQ-owned businesses, and progressive policies. These efforts not only promote inclusivity but also solidify the city’s status as a national leader in LGBTQ+ rights and acceptance.
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A beacon of equality and hospitality
The 2024 MEI evaluated over 500 cities across the U.S., analyzing how well local laws and services meet the needs of LGBTQ people. St. Petersburg’s perfect score reflects both its forward-thinking policies and the welcoming spirit of its residents. Recognized as a beacon of equality and hospitality, the city continues to set an example for others to follow.
Mayor Kenneth T. Welch celebrated the achievement, stating, “We are pleased to be recognized by the Human Rights Campaign 11 years in a row, but we understand that perfect scores on the Municipal Equality Index do not happen by accident. Intentional inclusivity and inclusive progress are part of what we build upon every day, from policy to practice. Our city’s growth is stronger when everyone plays a part in it, and we remain dedicated to advancing equity for all.”
The spirit of St. Pete
Eric Vaughan, the City’s LGBTQ+ Liaison, expressed his pride in this accomplishment, “Living and working in a city as welcoming and inclusive as St. Petersburg fills me with so much pride,” said Vaughan. “Our 11th year of a perfect score reflects our policies and the spirit of St Pete as a city where everyone can feel at home and empowered to be themselves.”
Eric Vaughan, the city’s LGBTQ+ Liaison, echoed the pride in this accomplishment: “Living and working in a city as welcoming and inclusive as St. Petersburg fills me with so much pride. Our 11th year of a perfect score reflects our policies and the spirit of St. Pete as a city where everyone can feel at home and empowered to be themselves.”
Having maintained a perfect MEI score since 2014, St. Petersburg continues to shine as one of the most inclusive cities in the country. For more information about the city’s commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion, visit stpete.org/lgbt.
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