Lowell – The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) recently published the Municipal Equality Index (MEI) 2024 scorecard, and the City of Lowell proudly announced an improved score of 96 out of a possible 100 points. The MEI is a nationwide evaluation of municipal law employed by the HRC to evaluate the inclusivity of municipal laws, policies, and services in support of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer plus (LGBTQ+) community residing and working in the city. (Access the scorecard here: www.hrc.org/MEI.)
“The City Council and Administration are proud to see the improved score from the Human Rights Campaign,” said City Manager Tom Golden. “This score reflects the City of Lowell’s deep commitment to protecting the rights of the LGBTQ+ community. We will continue to work hard to improve municipal services in support of residents, employees, and visitors alike.”
The 2024 MEI evaluates 506 cities from every state in the nation on 49 different criteria. The five largest cities in each state are evaluated, which puts Lowell in a position to be reviewed annually. Municipalities are scrutinized on five key areas: non-discrimination laws, municipal employment practices, delivery of municipal services, law enforcement policies, and leadership in promoting LGBTQ+ equality.
The 2024 scorecard reflects a 5-point improvement from last year, due in part to advancements in the areas of leadership pro-equality legislative and policy efforts, a youth bullying prevention policy adopted by the city, and providing services to support older adult members of the LGBTQ+ community.
The City Manager’s Office has worked in conjunction with the Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Officer, Human Relations Office, the Lowell School Department, and the Law Department to reassess existing policies in place across City departments to continue to make improvements.
“I am deeply grateful to have had the opportunity to work alongside this administration to help support the LGBTQ+ community,” says Chief DEI Officer Ineabelle Dominguez. “Together we have strived to ensure that the City of Lowell continues to thrive in every aspect, fostering an environment of inclusivity and growth for everyone.”
