Yonkers Earns Perfect Score on Municipal Equality Index for 11th Straight Year
The City of Yonkers has once again received a top score of 100 on the Municipal Equality Index (MEI), marking the eleventh year in a row the city has achieved this distinction. Yonkers is one of 132 municipalities nationwide to earn a perfect rating out of the 506 cities evaluated. The MEI measures how well local governments support LGBTQ+ residents through laws, policies, and services.
Mayor Mike Spano said the city’s consistent performance reflects its long-standing commitment to fairness and inclusion.
“Yonkers has always worked to ensure every person feels respected and welcome,” Spano said. “We strive to create spaces where our residents and workforce can live openly and safely. This recognition shows that meaningful progress is possible when equity is prioritized.”
The city earned full credit across several key categories, including:
Non-discrimination protections
Inclusive employment practices
Municipal services for LGBTQ+ residents
Law enforcement policies
Local leadership advancing LGBTQ+ equality
Anthony Nicodemo, chair of the Mayor’s LGBTQ Advisory Board, praised the accomplishment, noting that Yonkers’ efforts continue to make a tangible difference. “This milestone reflects years of dedication. Under Mayor Spano’s leadership, LGBTQ people in Yonkers can live and work with dignity. Eleven consecutive perfect scores show how strongly the city values equality.”
Michael Sabatino, the city’s Director of Human Rights and liaison to the Advisory Board, echoed that sentiment. “Reaching 100% for the eleventh year demonstrates Yonkers’ unwavering commitment to its LGBTQ community. Our diversity remains one of our greatest strengths.”
The MEI is published annually by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation in partnership with the Equality Federation Institute.
> View Yonkers’ Scorecard
> Read the Full Report
