Burien Supports Transgender Community Members

The City of Burien has taken a strong stance in support of its transgender community, reaffirming its commitment to inclusivity and safety. This public declaration came during a City Council meeting on February 24 and aligns with the recent observance of International Transgender Day of Visibility. Burien is responding to federal actions that threaten the rights of transgender individuals, including changes to anti-discrimination laws and identification processes. Gabriel Neuman, Policy Counsel & Government Relations Manager at GSBA, emphasized that such actions undermine the dignity of transgender and gender-diverse individuals. The city is also developing new inclusive language guidelines to enhance communication and reduce unintentional harm within its workforce.

City Manager Adolfo Bailon expressed optimism about maintaining momentum towards inclusion, stating, “By continuing to lean into our values, Burien can be a place where all can thrive. ” The city looks forward to celebrating annual traditions, including the ceremonial raising of the Pride Progress flag and Burien Pride’s three-day event. These efforts highlight Burien’s dedication to fostering a safe and welcoming environment for all community members.