Creating Thriving Communities Through Inclusion: A Howard County Perspective

In an era where the call for inclusivity grows ever louder, every individual, organization, and business has the opportunity, and responsibility, to make inclusion a central mission. True inclusion, however, requires more than just good intentions; it demands concrete actions to ensure that every member of our community can live authentically, reach their full potential, and thrive without the fear of discrimination or harm. In Howard County, Maryland, we are committed to making inclusivity a lived reality, not just a talking point.

The Human Rights Campaign's 2024 Municipal Equality Index (MEI) has once again recognized Howard County's efforts, awarding us a perfect score of 100 for the third consecutive year. At a time when LGBTQIA+ rights are increasingly under threat, the MEI serves as an essential benchmark, providing a rubric for cities and towns across the nation to assess their inclusivity.

Howard County's Commitment to Equality

The MEI evaluates inclusiveness in municipal laws, policies, and services in cities and towns across the United States. It scores municipalities in five key areas: non-discrimination laws, the municipality as an employer, municipal services, law enforcement, and leadership on LGBTQ+ equality. Howard County has consistently achieved top marks across all these domains, underscoring our commitment to creating a model for inclusive policies.

Since taking office as Howard County Executive in December 2018, one of my priorities has been to foster a community that reflects and celebrates diversity. In June 2019, we held our first Pride festival, bringing together thousands of residents to celebrate and reflect on the progress made in advancing civil rights and protections for LGBTQIA+ individuals. This festival has become a cornerstone of our community's commitment to inclusivity and acceptance.

Recognizing the importance of representation, in 2022, Howard County established its inaugural LGBTQIA+ Commission. This body works in partnership with county agencies, nonprofit organizations, and community groups to promote understanding, communication, and respect throughout the county. The Commission plays a pivotal role in advancing policy and systemic change for people of diverse gender and sexual identities.

Symbols of Unity and Progress

In a historic move, Howard County raised the Pride flag at the seat of county government for the first time in June 2022. This powerful symbol of unity and inclusiveness reflects our ongoing dedication to supporting, celebrating, and standing with all LGBTQIA+ individuals in our community. It reaffirms our belief that everyone is a valued, welcomed, and celebrated part of Howard County.

Our commitment to inclusivity extends beyond symbolic gestures. In 2024, the Office of Human Rights and Equity (OHRE) hosted various community events, workshops, and training sessions that attracted over 4,000 attendees. These gatherings create spaces where individuals can freely share their experiences and foster a collective sense of belonging. We strive to ensure that every voice is heard and valued.

Training and Education

Over the past year, more than 160 Howard County government employees participated in training provided by our Equity and Restorative Practices Unit. This pioneering initiative explores the ways in which current leadership paradigms may perpetuate racialized dynamics. It's crucial that we continuously examine our practices to identify and address areas where we may fall short, ensuring that we uphold the highest standards of equity and inclusion.

Howard County's perfect score on the MEI is a testament to the progress local governments can make in enacting policies and legislation that protect individuals based on sexual orientation and gender identity. By focusing on making a difference where people live, learn, and grow, we contribute to a broader national effort to combat hate and discrimination.

At the core of our efforts is the understanding that inclusive communities are thriving communities. By fostering environments where every person can live openly and authentically, we build a stronger, more resilient society. Howard County is proud to lead by example, demonstrating that inclusivity is not just an ideal to strive for, but a practical reality that benefits everyone.

Calvin Ball, Howard County Executive