Portland has a long history of being a welcoming and supportive community for LGBTQ people. The city is home to a thriving LGBTQ+ scene, with a variety of LGBTQ-owned businesses, organizations, and events. Portland also has a strong commitment to LGBTQ+ rights, with policies such as gender-neutral bathrooms and same-sex marriage.
In addition to its strong LGBTQ+ community and supportive policies, Portland also has a number of other factors that make it a great place to live for LGBTQ people. For example, Portland is a relatively affordable city with a high quality of life. The city is also known for its liberal and progressive politics.
These statistics paint a stark picture of the economic hardship faced by many residents of Portland
| City | Municipal Equality Index (MEI) Score |
|---|---|
| Portland | 100 |
| Eugene | 100 |
| Salem | 90 |
| Ashland | 86 |
Examples of Portland’s LGBTQ-friendly policies and inclusiveness
Here are some examples of Portland’s LGBTQ-friendly policies and inclusiveness:
- Portland has a non-discrimination ordinance that protects LGBTQ people from discrimination in housing, employment, and public accommodations.
- Portland has a municipal policy that requires transgender people to be able to use the bathroom that corresponds with their gender identity.
- Portland has a law enforcement agency that has been trained on LGBTQ issues.
- Portland has a workplace equality policy that protects LGBTQ employees.
- Portland is home to a number of LGBTQ-owned businesses, organizations, and events.
Other Oregon cities that scored highly on the MEI
Other Oregon cities that scored highly on the MEI include:
- Eugene (100)
- Salem (90)
- Ashland (86)
Conclusion
Portland is a great place to live for LGBTQ people. The city has a long history of being a welcoming and supportive community, and it has a number of LGBTQ-friendly policies and inclusiveness. If you are an LGBTQ person considering moving to Oregon, Portland is a great option to consider.
FAQ on Portland being the most LGBTQ-friendly city in Oregon
Q: What is the Municipal Equality Index (MEI)?
A: The Municipal Equality Index (MEI) is a national survey that rates cities on their LGBTQ-friendly policies and inclusiveness. The MEI is published by the Human Rights Campaign, the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) civil rights organization.
Q: Why is Portland the most LGBTQ-friendly city in Oregon?
A: Portland has a long history of being a welcoming and supportive community for LGBTQ people. The city is home to a thriving LGBTQ+ scene, with a variety of LGBTQ-owned businesses, organizations, and events. Portland also has a strong commitment to LGBTQ+ rights, with policies such as gender-neutral bathrooms and same-sex marriage.
Q: What are some examples of Portland’s LGBTQ-friendly policies and inclusiveness?
A: Here are some examples of Portland’s LGBTQ-friendly policies and inclusiveness:
- Portland has a non-discrimination ordinance that protects LGBTQ people from discrimination in housing, employment, and public accommodations.
- Portland has a municipal policy that requires transgender people to be able to use the bathroom that corresponds with their gender identity.
- Portland has a law enforcement agency that has been trained on LGBTQ issues.
- Portland has a workplace equality policy that protects LGBTQ employees.
- Portland is home to a number of LGBTQ-owned businesses, organizations, and events.
Q: What other Oregon cities scored highly on the MEI?
A: Other Oregon cities that scored highly on the MEI include Eugene, Salem, and Ashland.
Q: Why is it important to have LGBTQ-friendly cities?
A: LGBTQ-friendly cities are important because they provide a safe and welcoming environment for LGBTQ people to live, work, and raise families. LGBTQ-friendly cities also help to promote LGBTQ equality and inclusion.
Q: What can I do to support LGBTQ-friendly policies and inclusiveness in my community?
A: There are a number of things you can do to support LGBTQ-friendly policies and inclusiveness in your community. For example, you can:
- Contact your elected officials and let them know that you support LGBTQ equality.
- Vote for candidates who support LGBTQ rights.
- Donate to LGBTQ organizations and businesses.
- Volunteer your time to LGBTQ causes.
- Educate yourself and others about LGBTQ issues.
- Be a good ally to LGBTQ people.
