Ithaca earned a perfect score on a national index that measures how welcoming cities are to LGBTQ+ residents.
The Human Rights Campaign Foundation awarded the city a 100 on its Municipal Equality Index.
Ithaca is one of only nine cities in New York State to receive a perfect score. The index evaluates municipal laws, policies, and services that affect LGBTQ+ residents.
City officials said the score reflects years of work to build inclusive policies and partnerships across local government.
“As a community, we should be proud of the progress reflected in this year’s Municipal Equality Index score,” said Gregg Houck, the city’s youth bureau director and LGBTQ+ community liaison.
Houck said the recognition matters, but the work is ongoing.
“It’s a meaningful acknowledgment of the policies, partnerships, and daily commitments that make Ithaca a place where LGBTQ+ residents can feel seen and supported,” he said. “At the same time, this score is not a finish line.”
The Municipal Equality Index examines how cities across the country support LGBTQ+ residents through local laws, services, and leadership. The scorecard focuses on areas such as nondiscrimination protections, municipal services, and public engagement.
City officials encouraged residents to view Ithaca’s full report card on the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s website.
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