Syracuse Sun

Syracuse has once again achieved a perfect score in the Municipal Equality Index (MEI), according to an announcement by Mayor Ben Walsh. This marks the second consecutive year that Syracuse has earned a score of 100 in this nationwide assessment, which evaluates municipal policies, laws, and services related to LGBTQ+ equality.

The MEI is conducted by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), recognized as America's largest civil rights organization focused on achieving equality for LGBTQ+ individuals. Syracuse was among 506 cities evaluated in this comprehensive survey.

Mayor Walsh emphasized the city's dedication to inclusivity, stating, “Our vision for Syracuse is to be a growing city that embraces diversity and creates opportunity for all. Achieving a perfect MEI Index score of 100 reflects our unwavering commitment to that goal.” He also noted ongoing efforts with the Mayor’s LGBTQ+ Advisory Board to further improve their initiatives.

In New York State, ten cities were assessed as part of the Municipal Equality Index. Each city received scores based on various criteria, with a maximum possible score of 100. The detailed findings and individual city scorecards from the 2024 MEI report are accessible online at reports.hrc.org/municipal-equality-index-2024.