Cedar Rapids Is Welcoming 
We’re pleased to share that Cedar Rapids received a perfect score on the HRC Municipal Equality Index, which is compiled annually by the Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest LGBTQ advocacy organization. Our score reflects the City’s anti-discrimination policies, inclusive employment opportunities, law enforcement practices, municipal services and equality leadership. Learn More
Cedar Rapids is proactive in protecting all individuals with the assistance of the Cedar Rapids Civil Rights Commission, an administrative law agency. Their mission:“To secure for all individuals within the City of Cedar Rapids freedom from discrimination because of age, color, creed, disability, familial status, gender identity, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation.”
Progressive Business Community 
Several area companies with a large presence and/or headquarters in Cedar Rapids were named to the HRC Best Places to Work for LGBTQ Equality including: Alliant Energy Corp., Cargill, General Mills, GoDaddy, PepsiCo, and Transamerica.
Our small businesses are also supportive. Look for LGBTQ welcoming stickers throughout the community.
Cedar Rapids is Engaging
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The Cedar Rapids Tourism Office is a member of IGLTA, the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association, the world's leading network of LGBTQ+ welcoming tourism businesses. We are listed in Pride Journey's 2021 LGBQT Travel Directory.
Local Connections
Tanager Place LGBTQ Youth Center
PFLAG Cedar Rapids
One Iowa
CR Pride
Corridor Out Professionals
Transformations Iowa
LGBTQ Events 
Eastern Iowa LGBTQ Health and Wellness Conference (January 29, 2021) - This VIRTUAL conference is a collaboration between the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, the College of Public Health, and One Iowa. Learn More
LGBTQ Presidential Candidate Forum (September 2019) - As of August 2019, Former Vice President Joe Biden, former Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Julian Castro, former Pennsylvania representative Joe Sestak and author Marianne Williamson were all scheduled to speak at the forum on the lives of LGBTQ people and other civil rights issues impacting them in the heartland and rural America. All Democratic presidential candidates were invited to participate. Learn More or view a recap from The Advocate here.
Cedar Rapids/Iowa City Corridor LGBTQ Workplace Culture Summit 2019 - This event provides resources and networking opportunities for employers and LGBTQ employees to cultivate safe and inclusive workplaces. Employers will learn more about the LGBTQ community, how to make more inclusive policies, and retain LGBTQ talent. Learn More
CRPrideFest is an annual week-long celebration (end of June-July) of the LGBTQIA+ community located in Cedar Rapids, IA. Featuring vendors, artists, entertainment, delicious food and more! It is a free, family friendly event that is open to all. This event is supported by dozens of local businesses, non-profits and individuals. Learn More
Entertainment and Things To Do
Check out our Points of Pride itinerary to help plan your visit!
Cedar Rapids has one main LGBTQ hot-spot for nightlife, Belle’s Basix, but there are plenty of additional nightlife and entertainment options throughout the area.
If art and a side of mystery are of interest, view this piece on artist Grant Wood by CBS Sunday Morning, then visit his quirky studio and the Museum of Art in Cedar Rapids and form your own opinion.
Lavender Magazine writer Randy Stern visited Cedar Rapids in 2019, read more about his visit here.
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If Cedar Rapids may be a fit for your next event, Julie Stow, Director of Meetings & Conventions, would be happy to share more information and answer any questions.
Phone: 319-731-4558
