Here’s how Columbus received a perfect score from the Human Rights Campaign. | Photo via Canva
The Human Rights Campaign released the 2023 Municipal Equality Index, and Columbus is on the list. How did we score?
Each year, the Human Rights Campaign releases a Municipal Equality Index which takes a deep dive into municipal laws, policies, and services and how inclusive they are of LGBTQ+ people. This year’s edition examined 506 cities on 49 different criteria across five categories — non-discrimination laws, municipality as employer, services and programs, law enforcement, and leadership on LGBTQ+ equality.
Based on these criteria, Columbus earned a score of 100 out of 100. A perfect score. Here’s a breakdown of how we got here… and how we can go even further.
Non-discrimination laws
This category looks at whether LGBTQ+ discrimination is prohibited by law in areas of employment, housing, and public accommodation. Columbus achieved a 30 out of 30 for our laws across the state, county, and municipality, and received bonus points as the municipality has protections against youth conversion therapy.
Municipality as employer
Cities can achieve points for inclusive employment policies like trans-inclusive healthcare policies and non-discrimination in city employment. Columbus got a 28 out of 28, and earned bonus points for city employee domestic partner benefits.
Services and programs
This section considers the city’s efforts to include LGBTQ+ folks in city services and programs. Columbus scored 12 out of 12, and got bonus points for city-offered services to the transgender community, LGBTQ+ youths + older adults, and more.
Law enforcement
Looking at the relationship between law enforcement and the LGBTQ+ community, Columbus earned 22 out of 22.
Leadership on LGBTQ+ equality
This section looks at city leadership’s commitment to advocacy and inclusion. Columbus got an 8 out of 8, and earned bonus points for having openly LGBTQ+ elected or appointed leaders.
Looking ahead
If you want to get involved, here are some local organizations that support the LGBTQ+ community.
Columbus Blue Jackets vs. Arizona Coyotes | Thursday, Nov. 16 | 7 p.m. | Nationwide Arena, 200 W. Nationwide Blvd., Arena District | $40-$295 | The Jackets take on a challenge against this Western Conference team with a winning record.
Friday, Nov. 17
Ohio State Women’s Hockey vs. Wisconsin Badgers | Friday, Nov. 17 | 6 p.m. | Ohio State University Ice Rink, 390 Woody Hayes Dr., Campus | $0-$8 | Cheer on the Buckeyes as they look to remain undefeated in the Big Ten.
BrewDog’s “Golden Girls” Drag Dinner | Friday, Nov. 17 | 7-10 p.m. | BrewDog DogTap, 96 Gender Rd., Canal Winchester | $17 | Enjoy a drag performance + costume contest with dinner and drinks available for purchase.
Saturday, Nov. 18
Holiday Blooms | Saturday, Nov. 18-Sunday, Jan. 7 | Times vary | Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Garden, 1777 E. Broad St., Columbus | $0-$27 | Get in the holiday spirit with hundreds of poinsettias, the gingerbread competition on display, and holiday lights galore.
Sunday, Nov. 19
John Oliver | Sunday, Nov. 19 | 7:30 p.m. | Mershon Auditorium, 1871 N. High St., Campus | $100 | See the Emmy-winning stand-up comic who hosts the late-night talk show on HBO.
The Ronald McDonald House of Columbus underwent an extensive expansion at 711 E. Livingston Ave. It reopened with 220,000 sqft, becoming the largest RMH in the world. The home supports families of kids receiving care at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. (614now)
Show
“A Christmas Carol” — a holiday show based on the classic Charles Dickens novel — is returning to the Ohio Theatre from Friday, Nov. 24-Sunday, Nov. 26. Tickets are on sale now.
Concert
O.A.R., a rock band with hits like “Love and Memories,” is coming to KEMBA Live! on August 29, 2024. Tickets go on sale Friday, Nov. 17 at 12 p.m.
Eat
Mikey’s Late Night Slice is selling a Thanksgiving-themed pizza — Ray Ray’s Gobbler — until Sunday, Nov. 26. The pizza is topped with smoked turkey from Ray Ray’s hog pit, stuffing, and gravy. Bonus: Ask for cranberry sauce on the side for dipping.
Sports
Ohio State moved down to No. 2 in the new College Football Playoffs rankings. The Buckeyes were passed by Georgia after the Bulldogs defeated Mississippi 52-17.
Try This
Mark your calendars. Village Lights is returning to German Village on Sunday, Dec. 3 from 5-9 p.m. Expect live holiday music, festive lights, pop-up shops, trolley stops, and Santa appearances. Strolling the village is free.
Ranked
US News ranked Columbus as the No. 3 best place to live in Ohio. Cincinnati took the top spot, and Youngstown came in at No. 2. Rankings were based on information from the following: The US Census Bureau, the FBI, the US Department of Labor, and US News’ internal resources.
Seasonal
ICYMI, the Ohio Made Holiday Market is happening this weekend. Get ready for festive cocktails, local products, and holiday cheer as you explore this holiday shopping party extravaganza. Grab tickets.*
Eat
Fruit can be one of the healthiest things you can put into your body, but the majority of Americans are making this single mistake that can counteract all the health benefits of fruit. Here’s why one heart surgeon is asking Americans to “stop doing this to your berries.”*
The holidays are upon us, and Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams has released five limited-edition holiday flavors to celebrate the season. All the seasonal flavors are available now online, in local shops, and in select grocery stores.
Boozy Eggnog — Enjoy egg custard flavors with nutmeg and Uncle Nearest whiskey.
Merry Berry — Taste bites of amaretti cookies and raspberry coulis throughout.
This time of year is always a great time to give back. I have volunteered with the Columbus Dream Center and had great experiences. What are your favorite ways to give back to the community? Let us know so we can share it with our readers next week.
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