The City of Providence values all of its residents and visitors, and our laws and policies ensure equal protections for LGBTQ people. The State of Rhode Island has outlawed discrimination in employment, credit, housing and public accommodations on the basis of sexual orientation since 1995. In 2001, Rhode Island became the second state in the nation to include gender identity or expression in its non-discrimination policy.
City of Providence Non-Discrimination Policy regarding Programs and Services: The City of Providence shall not discriminate in the administration of its programs, service and activities, on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation or genetic information. Retaliation against individuals who participate in an Equal Employment Opportunity investigation is strictly prohibited.
Non-Discrimination Policy Regarding Employment: The City of Providence shall not unlawfully discriminate in hiring, training, transfer, promotion, provision of compensation or employment benefits on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation or genetic information.
The City of Providence is pleased to announce that there are gender neutral restrooms in our municipal buildings. All-gender restrooms are designated for any person to use, regardless of their gender identity and/or expression. Please refer to the following locations for public use:
- 5th floor of City Hall (25 Dorrance Street)
- Lower level of the Doorley Building (444 Westminster Street)
- 1st floor in the Providence Police Department next to Municipal Court (325 Washington Street)
- Lower level of Providence School Department (797 Westminster Street)
LGBTQ Liaison: Mayor Elorza appointed Director of Research and Development Bret Jacob as LGBTQ Liaison for the City of Providence. Contact Bret by calling (401) 421-2489, or email him at bjacob@providenceri.gov.
LGBTQ organizations wishing to invite the Mayor to an event should submit an event request.