Providence Receives Perfect Score in Equality Survey

PROVIDENCE, RI – The Human Rights Campaign today recognized the City of Providence
for its commitment to equality by awarding a perfect score in its Municipal Equality
Index.

«I am proud of the work that our City has done to become a leader on LGBT issues,»
said Mayor Jorge Elorza. «From designating all-gender restrooms in city buildings to
making our healthcare policy more inclusive, I am committed to sending a strong
message that Providence welcomes and values all of its employees and residents,
regardless of who they love or how they identify.»

Providence is among 47 cities nationally and the only city in Rhode Island receiving
a perfect score. Scores are based upon a number of criteria including:
non-discrimination laws, municipal services, practices as an employer, law
enforcement, and the relationship between the LGBT community and city.

«This Administration embraces its lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender residents
and I am proud of all that Providence has done to support them,» said Deputy Chief
of Staff Marisa O’Gara, whom Mayor Elorza appointed the Administration LGBT
Community Liaison earlier this year.

«It’s a true privilege to work alongside a Mayor who has been an incredible advocate
and leader for the LGBT community, a community of which I am proud to be a member.
We have more work in front of us, but today is a day to celebrate our City,»
continued O’Gara.

The decision recognized several initiatives the Administration has implemented in
the past year including instituting more inclusive healthcare policies for City
employees and designating all-gender restrooms in City buildings.