State Equality Index: Momentum Builds for LGBTQ Equality!

January 31, 2019

Today, Equality Federation and Human Rights Campaign released the annual State Equality Index (SEI). This report illuminates the hard work of our member organizations from Equality Florida to Mass Equality to Equality Texas.

This year, the number of states that obtained the SEI’s highest rating, “Working Toward Innovative Equality,” increased from 13 to 17. We are especially thrilled to note that Massachusetts made history saving transgender nondiscrimination protections and 15 states have banned conversion therapy!

The SEI also shows the many challenges on the horizon as we fight for full equality in every community we call home. In 30 states, LGBTQ people remain at risk of being fired, evicted or denied services because of who they are. As you look at how your state scores on the measures of equality in this index, consider how you might help us fight for full equality at home,in your state and nationally.

We need supporters of equality in every community. Please join our community of donors with a $10 monthly gift.

Your donation will help us continue to build power in the states so we can support the local efforts that make a difference in your daily life, including defending nondiscrimination protections, decriminalizing HIV, and protecting the rights of parents and youth in foster care and adoption.

Right now we’re tracking nearly 400 pieces of legislation across the nation. And, we’re providing in-depth support to our member organizations – large and small – on everything from voter outreach, to messaging, to moving people to act in their communities.  This is how we make progress – this is how we win!

More You might like

A Look into Equality Texas’ Rainbow Rights Roadshow 🌈

It’s hard to be a queer or trans Texan right now, especially in deep-red rural areas. But Equality Texas has the answer: the Rainbow Rights Roadshow, a 15-stop tour of the state is a chance for LGBTQ+ Texans to connect, learn, advocate, and be in community.

June 12, 2025
Prevent Mpox in our communities

Check out our bilingual community education toolkit to help our communities learn about mpox and the safe and effective vaccine that protects against it.

June 12, 2025
Health Care is an LGBTQ+ Issue

FACT: Cuts to health care disproportionately hurt LGBTQ+ communities. Click to view our health care factsheet!

June 12, 2025
A young man looking up, smilingA young man smiling straight at the camera
Confident young woman standing with crossed arms.

Want To Make A Difference? Support Our Work

With your support, we'll be able to continue our work to build the leaders of today and tomorrow, strengthen state-based LGBTQ+ organizations, and make critical progress on the issues that matter most—like protecting transgender people, ending HIV criminalization and ensuring access to care, and banning conversion therapy across the country.