The initiative examines the inclusivity of laws, policies & services with respect to the LGBTQ+ community.
The City of Gaithersburg earned a score of 100 points in the 11th annual Municipal Equality Index, an initiative of the Human Rights Campaign that examines the inclusivity of laws, policies & services with respect to the LGBTQ+ community. The City’s score in 2021 was also 100. The Index used 49 different criteria to rate 506 cities across the country. The average score nationally was 68, up one point from 2021 and marking the fifth consecutive year of national average increases.
Cities are rated based on non-discrimination laws, the municipality as an employer, municipal services, law enforcement & leadership on LGBTQ+ equality. Gaithersburg achieved additional points in 2022 for having all-gender single occupancy facilities & having a youth bullying prevention policy for City services. Read the City’s scorecard here. The City has also provided Transgender-Inclusive Healthcare benefits for more than eight years & continues to work with the HRC on providing its required documentation.
“We pride ourselves on being a welcoming community, and I think this rating affirms our commitment to that,” said Mayor Jud Ashman. “Regardless of where you come from, your sexual orientation, or how you identify, we want all people to feel that Gaithersburg is a place where you can comfortably engage with your local government & enjoy freedom of expression.”
The full Municipality Equality Index can be found at https://www.hrc.org/mei. For more information on City of Gaithersburg initiatives, contact Deputy City Manager Dennis Enslinger at [email protected].
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FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival
Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.
Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.
Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.
Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.
As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.
Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.
LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!
MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME
2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES
KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!
