City Of Kansas City: Perfect Score For LGBTQ Equality At KCMO

Press release from the City of Kansas City:

11/19/2021 8:59 AM

NEWS RELEASE KCMO.gov/pride | HRC.org/mei Kansas City’s work to increase equity across all communities has been recognized with a perfect score - 100 points – on the 2021 Municipal Equality Index. The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation’s Municipal Equality Index is the only nationwide assessment of LGBTQ+ equality regarding municipal policies, laws and services. “For decades Kansas City has been at the forefront of our region in making sure we have equality for all, our employees, our residents, our friends, our neighbors and our tourists," Mayor Quinton Lucas said. "Everyone in Kansas City belongs and everyone in Kansas City is welcome.” “We’re working hard to create inclusive policies and safe spaces for all of our employees and residents, particularly those who have been overlooked or marginalized before,” said City Manager Brian Platt. “Our goal is for everyone here in Kansas City to feel safe, supported and comfortable everywhere in this City.” While Kansas City has consistently scored in the top tier of the annual MEI, this year’s perfect score reflects recent work to do even more, including taking these significant steps to support equity for our residents and employees: City Council passed ordinance protecting youth from conversion therapy

Creation of the City’s first Chief Equity Officer position

New policies and supportive resources for LGBTQ businesses Inclusion of gender affirming treatments and procedures in the City’s healthcare plans (effective May 1, 2022)

Launched Employee Resource Group called KC Proud

Enacted all-gender restroom facilities policy for city buildings

First Pride Progress flag-raising at City Hall for any government building in the state of Missouri

Created LGBTQ+ Commission

Providing city sponsorships and support for two Pride festivals “For 10 incredible years, the MEI has helped guide, shape and inspire more inclusive laws and policies in cities of all sizes in all parts of the country,” said Cathryn Oakley, State Legislative Director & Senior Counsel for the Human Rights Campaign and Founding Author of the Municipal Equality Index. “This program is one of the key ways HRC is able to impact the daily lives of our members, supporters and allies.” “It has been my honor to stand alongside the LGBTQ community as we continue the fight for inclusivity, dignity and equality that began in Kansas City many years ago.” said Sixth District at-large Councilmember Andrea Bough. “Kansas City has been a leader in this area, and this Council continues that tradition by saying we respect you and we will fight for you.” The City has also taken other strong measures to ensure equity across all communities, including: Dedication of a boulevard to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Formally acknowledging Juneteenth as an official city holiday

Negotiated a new labor agreement with KC Fire Department that emphasizes equity while eliminating discriminatory practices of the past.

Creating a Quality of Life Investment District (QLID) to improve equity across all facilities in the Kansas City Parks system.

Launched Employee Resource Group for Black employees called ASSET. Media questions and requests for more information may be directed to Chris Hernandez, City Communications Director, 816-513-3474.

This press release was produced by the City of Kansas City. The views expressed here are the author’s own.