Davenport is one of only three cities in Iowa and 68 across the United States to receive a perfect score in the 2017 Human Rights Campaign's nationwide rating system of LGBTQ inclusion in municipal law, policy and services.
The HRC released its Municipal Equality Index Thursday showing Davenport received a score of 100 for the third straight year.
“The City of Davenport strives to be a welcoming and inclusive community for all, and our work will continue in earnest in making sure we are maximizing our efforts in those policy areas that matter most," said Scott J. VanDeWoestyne, Inclusion and Equity Administrator for the City of Davenport.
"Davenport will continue leading and appreciates the work HRC does in collaborating with us.”
Other Iowa cities that received the perfect score were Cedar Rapids and Iowa City. Nine cities in Iowa were scored. Across the country, 506 cities were measured, with an average score of 57.
Cities are in constant competition for residents, businesses and employees, and inclusiveness is an important factor that attracts all three.
“Today, the MEI serves as a vital tool for business leaders and municipal officials alike when it comes to economic development. CEOs know that in order to attract and retain the best employees, they must grow their companies in places that protect LGBTQ citizens from discrimination and actively open their doors to all communities. The MEI is the best tool to help these businesses make crucial evaluations about the welcoming -- or unwelcoming -- nature of towns and cities across the nation,” said HRCs President Chad Griffin.
The other Iowa Cities that were scored are Ames, Cedar Rapids, Des Moines, Dubuque, Iowa City, Sioux City, Waterloo and West Des Moines.
To see the report, click
here.