Bellingham City Council discusses draft of new ordinance in support of LGBTQ community

The Bellingham City Council approved a draft ordinance on July 7 aimed at strengthening protections for LGBTQ+ rights. The ordinance includes measures to challenge unconstitutional policies and ensures access to healthcare, free speech, and gender expression for community members. Councilmember Hannah Stone highlighted the importance of community feedback, noting the council's ongoing commitment to LGBTQ+ issues. This initiative follows a series of federal policies under the Trump administration that have raised concerns about LGBTQ+ rights. The council previously reaffirmed Bellingham's status as a "welcoming city" in a resolution passed on June 9, echoing similar actions taken in 2017.

The draft ordinance must pass three votes to become law, with the final vote scheduled for July 21. Approximately 20 community members voiced their support and concerns during the meeting, reflecting the impact of national policies on local communities. The council encourages continued public engagement ahead of the vote, underscoring the ordinance's significance in safeguarding individual rights.