Central Nova News

The City of Alexandria has achieved a perfect score for the fifth consecutive year in the Human Rights Campaign’s (HRC) annual Municipal Equality Index (MEI). This year, the city improved its score by six points compared to last year's ranking. Alexandria is among 130 cities in the United States to earn a perfect score.

Several initiatives contributed to this increase. The City of Alexandria's LGBTQ+ Task Force offers training on LGBTQ+ inclusion for public safety recruits and direct service providers. Additionally, the city provides "Diversity in Practice: Working with the LGBTQ+ Community" training available to all employees throughout the year. During Pride Month, a message was sent by the City Manager to employees, accompanied by a Lunch & Learn session with Dr. Emerald Christopher, the City's Chief Race and Social Equity Officer.

In terms of services for LGBTQ+ youth, Alexandria's Department of Community and Human Services (DCHS), in collaboration with Safe Space NOVA, offers grant-funded services that include healthy relationships curriculum and support groups.

For older adults, the City's Commission on Aging collaborates with various agencies to provide inclusive services through workshops and training sessions for both internal and external partners.

The Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s Municipality Equality Index serves as a tool for assessing how committed cities are to LGBTQ+ equality. It also provides guidance for mayors, councilors, and administrators nationwide on steps they can take to protect their LGBTQ+ residents and staff.

For further details about Alexandria's full scorecard, visit alexandriava.gov/HumanRights. More information about HRC’s Municipal Equality Index is available at hrc.org/MEI. Media inquiries can be directed to the Office of Communications & Community Engagement at newsroom@alexandriava.gov.