College Park Earns Perfect Score on National Equality Index

The City of College Park said it achieved a perfect score on the Human Rights Campaign 2025 Municipal Equality Index, earning 100 out of 100 points under an evaluation of municipal laws, policies and services affecting LGBTQ+ people. The index assessed municipalities across 49 criteria, and College Park received maximum marks across those categories, the City announced. The recognition was posted on November 18, 2025.

City officials described the result as a reflection of ongoing commitments to diversity and equity and encouraged residents and stakeholders to review the HRC report and continue working to support an inclusive community. The municipal announcement framed the award as the product of laws, policies and services that promote equality across the community.

For Prince George's County residents, the accolade matters because municipal scores on the Municipal Equality Index can affect everyday interactions with government services, workplace protections for city employees and the perception of safety for LGBTQ+ residents and visitors. A perfect score signals that College Park's local government has aligned multiple aspects of city governance with standards used to evaluate municipal inclusion nationwide. That alignment can influence community trust in public institutions and the willingness of residents to engage with City programs.

The Municipal Equality Index is a national benchmark that examines protections in areas such as nondiscrimination policy, municipal services and law enforcement practices. While the City statement did not itemize specific policies that led to the perfect score, the overall grade indicates comprehensive performance across the index's criteria. City leaders invited the public to examine the HRC report to understand the specific measures and to join ongoing efforts to bolster inclusion.

Beyond local implications, high scores on the Municipal Equality Index contribute to broader conversations about municipal leadership on civil rights and social inclusion. For a diverse jurisdiction like Prince George's County, College Park's recognition may serve as a model for neighboring municipalities seeking to strengthen protections and public services. Residents interested in the details of the evaluation are encouraged to consult the HRC report and participate in the city conversations that follow.