LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The Derby City is one of the most welcoming and inclusive places in the U.S., according to the latest Municipal Equality Index scores from the Human Rights Campaign. 

The annual index scores cities based on their support of the LGBTQ community, and Louisville's latest perfect score maintains a streak that began in 2015.

The HRC's index examines each city's inclusivity on a range of issues including non-discrimination laws, municipal services and law enforcement. 

“Every year, word spreads even farther that Louisville is an open and inviting place for visitors and residents no matter who they love or how they identify,” said Mayor Craig Greenberg. “Recognitions like the recent New York Times features and our continued streak of perfect scores from the Human Rights Campaign help us share that story."

Several factors played into the New York Times' inclusion of Louisville in its 52 Places to Go in 2023 feature, including the city's glowing record with the HRC, a new LGBTQ community center and the thriving LGBTQ scene, with notable late-night spots like Chill Bar and Play becoming a staple in the community.

 “We are proud of Louisville's perfect score as it shows the city's longstanding commitment to being an inclusive and welcoming destination – especially with regards to our local LGBTQ community and incoming visitors,” said Cleo Battle, President & CEO of Louisville Tourism.

In a press release, Greenberg highlighted a host of other LGBTQ-related accolades Louisville earned, including:

• “Most Diverse Cities in the U.S” - Far & Wide
• “6 Surprising Cities Great for LGBTQ Families” - Family Traveller
• “6 Underrated Cities for LGBT Travelers” - Condé Nast Traveler

Lexington and Covington also received perfect scores from 2022's HRC index. Owensboro and Bowling Green received the state's two lowest scores with 38 and 40 respectively.