In a poignant gathering at Olympia City Hall, community members voiced their urgent call for the city to declare itself a sanctuary for transgender and LGBTQ individuals. The December 10th city council meeting was marked by heartfelt testimonies from residents who expressed their fears and hopes amid a national climate increasingly hostile to LGBTQ rights.

Alexis, a transgender woman and small business owner, opened the public comment section with a powerful plea. She highlighted the alarming rise in anti-trans legislation and the targeted campaigns against the LGBTQ community, urging the council to take a stand by officially designating Olympia as a sanctuary city for these marginalized groups. “We need a safe place to live in a city that has vowed to protect us,” she implored, referencing the city’s existing sanctuary status for immigrants and refugees.

Lucas Miller, a board member of PFLAG Olympia, echoed this sentiment, sharing that their organization has been inundated with inquiries from LGBTQ individuals, particularly trans youth, seeking refuge from states with regressive laws. “Parents are reaching out, desperate for a place where their children can access lifesaving healthcare,” he said, emphasizing the need for Olympia to extend its protections.

Council members responded with a unified front, expressing their commitment to the cause. Council member Madron acknowledged the importance of the sanctuary status, while Council member Gilman emphasized the need for concrete actions to support the LGBTQ community. “We want every person in Olympia to feel loved, welcomed, and defended from oppressive laws,” she stated.

The discussions also touched on the broader implications of sanctuary city status, with council members recognizing the urgency of the matter in light of potential federal changes that could threaten such designations. Council member Cooper proposed a comprehensive approach, suggesting an implementation report to enhance existing sanctuary resolutions and explore new protections specifically for LGBTQIA+ individuals.

As the meeting concluded, the atmosphere was charged with a sense of solidarity and determination. The council’s commitment to protecting vulnerable communities resonated deeply with those in attendance, leaving many hopeful for the future. The call for Olympia to stand as a beacon of safety and acceptance for all its residents continues to gain momentum, reflecting a community united in its values of inclusivity and justice.