Boston, Pittsfield declare sanctuary cities for LGBTQ+ community

The Boston City Council voted 12-1 to declare the city a sanctuary for transgender people, aiming to protect their rights amidst increasing national attacks on the LGBTQ+ community. Sponsored by Councilors Julia Mejia and Liz Breadon, the non-binding resolution instructs city agencies not to comply with federal regulations that negatively impact transgender individuals. While Councilor Ed Flynn was the only dissenting vote, expressing a need for more information on the resolution's implications, other councilors emphasized the importance of this symbolic act as a precursor to more concrete legislative protections. Mejia described the measure as a 'love letter' to the community, reflecting a commitment to safety and dignity for all. This decision follows similar resolutions passed in cities like Worcester and Pittsfield, indicating a broader trend of local governments responding to perceived federal overreach against LGBTQ+ rights. Councilor Gabriela Coletta Zapata highlighted the need for ongoing legislative efforts to ensure that vulnerable populations, especially those in states with regressive policies, receive adequate protections.