In a recent Alexandria city council meeting, a resolution was introduced to reaffirm the city’s commitment to protecting the constitutional rights of LGBTQ+ individuals. The resolution comes in response to a growing wave of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation across the United States, with over 500 bills filed in state legislatures in the past two years, marking the highest number ever recorded.

The resolution highlights Alexandria's historical support for LGBTQ+ rights, referencing the Virginia Values Act, which was passed in 2020 to enshrine civil rights protections for LGBTQ+ individuals in state law. Despite this progress, the resolution's proponents expressed concern over the backlash against LGBTQ+ rights, particularly targeting vulnerable youth.

Council members discussed the implications of Project 2025, a proposed agenda that aims to roll back protections for LGBTQ+ individuals at the federal level, including the potential removal of sexual orientation and gender identity from non-discrimination policies. The resolution seeks to position Alexandria as a sanctuary for LGBTQ+ individuals, ensuring that the city remains a safe haven amidst increasing hostility.

The council emphasized the importance of legal protections, instructing the city attorney to participate in litigation to safeguard LGBTQ+ rights and to align city policies with recent court rulings that affirm these rights. The resolution aims to reassure the local LGBTQ+ community that Alexandria will actively oppose discrimination and uphold their rights.

The meeting concluded with a motion to adopt the resolution, reflecting the council's commitment to fostering an inclusive environment for all residents, particularly those from marginalized communities.