After years of efforts to build and strengthen relations with the LGBTQIA+ community, the City of Kalamazoo has announced it has hired two designated liaisons to serve as a bridge between the two communities.

Tanya Hewitt-Smith, the city’s director of diversity, equity, and inclusion, will serve as the city manager’s LGBTQIA+ liaison. Christina Ellis, a public safety officer, will serve as the police department’s LGBTQIA+ liaison.

The new hires are part of the city’s efforts to improve its score on the Municipal Equality Index calculated by the Human Rights Campaign. Kalamazoo received an 86 score in 2023, climbing 12 points from 2022.

One of the ways the City of Kalamazoo improved its MEI scorecard was by partnering with OutFront Kalamazoo to hold LGBTQ+ trainings for all city staff, the city reported.

Hewitt-Smith, the director of diversity, equity, and inclusion, has been in her role since September 2022. She has worked to diversify the city’s workforce and promote diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.

Ellis was recently recognized as an LGBTQ+ Leader Award recipient from the National Diversity Council.

The new hires are part of the city’s efforts to create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all.