PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
City Manager’s Office November 17, 2023
Janine Jordan, City Manager
noaklandpotter@cityoflaramie.org
307-721-5226
Laramie Leads the State for LGBTQ+ Inclusion and Human rights
Laramie (WY) – The City of Laramie is Wyoming’s highest scoring community for LGBTQ+ inclusion in laws, policies and services this year according to the Human Rights Commission (H.R.C.) Municipal Equality Index. Laramie improved its record by an impressive 19 points from last year, achieving a total score of 89 out of 100.
Seven cities in Wyoming are evaluated for LGBTQ+ inclusion and human rights, including Casper, Cheyenne, Gillette, Jackson, Laramie, Rock Springs and Sheridan. The H.R.C. Municipal Equality Index (MEI) rates municipalities of varying sizes drawn from every state and is the nation’s premier benchmarking tool for municipal officials, policy makers and business leaders. “The equality index gives us an opportunity each year to reflect on our progress and consider how we can make further strides to ensure Laramie is a welcoming community, and that the City, as an employer, is supportive of all staff members,” says City Manager, Janine Jordan. Laramie has scored above the national average for 5 years.
“We’ve worked purposefully for over a decade to understand the issues and concerns of our LGTBQ+ community and to instate supportive policies and practices,” said City Manager Janine Jordan. “This year, we’ll evaluate the establishment of a municipal commission on human rights with City Council and residents.”
Mayor Brian Harrington agreeably added, "It is rewarding to see the efforts of the City of Laramie be reflected in this score. The Council broadly understands the critical relationship between folks feeling supported by their community and the overall vibrancy of our City. We will continue to work to provide the highest quality of life possible for all our residents."
