Lakewood Achieves Perfect Equality Score, Implements New LGBTQ+ Protections

Lakewood, Ohio, has solidified its reputation as a leading inclusive city by achieving a perfect score from the Human Rights Campaign. This recognition comes as city leaders recently approved a comprehensive Gender Freedom Policy aimed at expanding protections for LGBTQ+ residents.

The city earned a score of 100% from the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, which assesses how municipalities support their LGBTQ+ communities. Elizabeth Katavich, the Lead Advocacy Coordinator with the LGBT Community Center of Greater Cleveland, emphasized the importance of safe spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals, stating, “Our goal, ever since we were founded back in 1975, has always been about space making when no other spaces essentially exist.”

The newly enacted Gender Freedom Policy, primarily crafted by Council President Sarah Kepple and Councilwoman Cindy Strebig, aims to protect the rights of transgender community members. Kepple explained that the policy prioritizes safeguarding individuals from state-level restrictions on gender-affirming care, even if such care becomes illegal in Ohio. “We will not cooperate with investigations into those seeking that care,” Kepple noted.

Key elements of the policy include ongoing support for employees pursuing gender-affirming care outside the state and the protection of drag performances and gender expression. Kepple further stated, “If the state says this is illegal for you to wear the clothes you want to wear, we will focus on prosecuting that after we’ve addressed more pressing community needs.”

The unanimous passage of the policy reflects a strong commitment from Lakewood’s City Council. Council member Tom Bullock echoed the sentiments of many in the community, stating, “Lakewood is for fairness. Lakewood is for diversity, and we’re about community members supporting one another and having the freedom to be themselves.”

Community members like Matthew Brown, a member of the Cleveland Democratic Socialist of America, expressed optimism about Lakewood’s proactive stance. “I’m just very thrilled, because I think that Lakewood is doing a great job of, again, upholding where I think the federal government has fallen behind,” Brown said.

Despite the city’s advancements, some conservative activists have criticized the decision to protect gender-affirming care. Lizzie Marbach, a local conservative figure, described the policy as “evil,” claiming it does not genuinely affirm gender identity.

In response to ongoing challenges at the federal level, Kepple reaffirmed Lakewood’s dedication to being a welcoming environment for all residents. “Lakewood is known for being a very welcoming, affirming place for everyone, and we want to make sure, particularly in this era, that we lift up our LGBT neighbors when they most need it,” she said.

Looking ahead, Kepple mentioned plans to advocate for gender-neutral restrooms in any new construction projects, further enhancing inclusivity in the community. Lakewood’s actions stand as a significant commitment to protecting and uplifting LGBTQ+ rights, setting an example for other municipalities to follow.