MILWAUKEE — The City of Milwaukee received a perfect score on the Human Rights Campaign’s (HRC) Municipality Equality Index (MEI) for the fourth year in a row in 2021.

The MEI report assesses LGBTQ+ inclusiveness in municipal law and policy. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the MEI. In 2021, only 110 out of a total of 506 cities rated received perfect scores of 100.

Mayor Tom Barrett joined the City of Milwaukee Equal Rights Commission, Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa, HRC representatives, Fair Wisconsin and FORGE to announce the city’s perfect score.

“We are proud of what the city has accomplished and thankful for everyone who has worked to maintain our strong Municipality Equality Index,” Barrett said. “We also acknowledge that building an inclusive city is an ongoing project, and Milwaukee is committed to continuing this effort.”

The city’s Equal Rights Commission works to promote racial, social and economic equity to the residents of Milwaukee. Currently, the Commission is working to implement procedures to bring gender-inclusive restrooms to City buildings, include preferred language protection under Chapter 109 of the Milwaukee Code of Ordinances and safely restart in-person community-wide listening sessions.

Milwaukee leaders have also added enforcement mechanisms to its Equal Rights Ordinance, banning conversion therapy, appointing liaisons in the Mayor’s Office and at the Milwaukee Police Department and providing trans-inclusive healthcare benefits.

“This honor is so important for Milwaukee. As the City’s first openly LGBTQ+ alder, I’m incredibly proud that our policies are inclusive to all, and we will continue fighting for the rights of all citizens,” Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa said. “My most heartfelt gratitude goes out to all who made this high distinction possible.”

The City of Milwaukee Equal Rights Commission is made up of Commissioners appointed by the Mayor who work to Promote and protect equality, equity, and human rights through education, enforcement and community engagement.