The City of Laramie has once again been deemed the highest-scoring community in Wyoming for LGBTQ+ inclusion in laws, policies, and services this year, according to the Human Rights Commission’s (HRC) Municipal Equality Index (MEI). This rating showcases our leadership’s commitment to inclusivity, dedication to doing the right thing for all community members, and innovative solutions for the people they serve.

Since the last index in 2023, Laramie improved its score by three points for a total of 92 out of a maximum score of 100. City leaders work tirelessly to ensure all residents’ health, safety, and well-being are met. Understanding equality’s impact on every resident creates an environment that fosters a sense of belonging among citizens.  

“The City has worked purposefully for more than a decade to understand how we can best serve our LGBTQ+ residents,” said City Manager Janine Jordan. “It’s important that the City is also an inclusive and welcoming place to work and, this index helps us measure the strength of our ability to recruit, hire, and retain the most talented professionals to serve our fine community.”

Casper, Cheyenne, Gillette, Jackson, Laramie, Rock Springs, and Sheridan are the seven cities in Wyoming evaluated for LGBTQ+ inclusion. Scoring criteria are based on non-discrimination laws, municipality as employer practices, services and programs geared towards the LGBTQ+ community, law enforcement, and stance of leadership on LGBTQ+ equality. The HRC Municipal Equality Index rates municipalities of varying sizes drawn from every state and is the nation’s premier benchmarking tool for municipal officials, policymakers, and business leaders. 

City leadership has worked together with community stakeholders to create an environment that is inclusive and a place where everyone can thrive. Mayor Brian Harrington adds,

“I’ve been eagerly awaiting the 2024 MEI results because they validate the efforts of the City of Laramie in ensuring everyone feels at home in Laramie. The City Council understands the crucial connection between feeling respected by your community and the vibrancy of the community. The City will proudly continue to work to provide the highest quality of life to all our residents.”