City of Long Beach Earns Perfect Score in Nationwide LGBTQ+ Municipal Equality Index
The Californer/10333131

Long Beach, CA ~ Long Beach, CA - The City of Long Beach has once again been recognized as one of the top cities in the nation for its inclusivity towards the LGBTQ+ community. This marks the 14th consecutive year that Long Beach has received this honor, earning a perfect score in the 2025 Human Rights Campaign Foundation's Municipal Equality Index (MEI). The city also received a record-breaking 18 bonus points, solidifying its commitment to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all.

Out of 506 cities nationwide that participated in the MEI, Long Beach was one of only 132 to achieve a perfect score. This achievement is a testament to the city's dedication to promoting equality and respect for its vibrant LGBTQ+ community. Mayor Rex Richardson expressed his pride in this recognition, stating that it showcases who Long Beach is as a city and highlights their ongoing efforts towards inclusion.

However, Mayor Richardson also emphasized that inclusion goes beyond just a score and requires constant attention and action. He acknowledged the political uncertainty seen across the country and reaffirmed Long Beach's commitment to building on this success and further supporting their LGBTQ+ community.

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Long Beach has long been at the forefront of LGBTQ+ rights in its municipal laws and policies. The MEI evaluates cities based on their inclusivity towards LGBTQ+ individuals who live and work there. Cities are rated on a scale of 0 to 100, with bonus points awarded for essential programs or protections that may be difficult to attain.

In the 2025 report, Long Beach received perfect scores in categories such as non-discrimination laws, municipality as an employer, law enforcement, and leadership on LGBTQ equality. The city also earned bonus points for providing services to LGBTQ+ youth, older adults, people living with HIV or AIDS, and the transgender community.

While this year's MEI saw a record number of perfect scores, there was also a slight drop in the national average score for the first time in seven years. This contrast highlights Long Beach's continued efforts to support its LGBTQ+ community, despite the ongoing political uncertainty seen across the country.

The full 2025 report can be found on the Human Rights Campaign Foundation's website. The organization is the largest civil rights group working towards equality for LGBTQ+ Americans. Through inspiring and engaging individuals and communities, they strive to end discrimination and achieve fundamental fairness and equality for all.

Long Beach's perfect score in the MEI is a testament to the city's commitment to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. As they continue to lead by example, Long Beach sets a standard for other cities to follow in promoting equality and respect for all members of their community.

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