Olympia council supports sanctuary status for trans, LGBTQ+ | The Olympian

Olympia, Washington, is on the verge of becoming the first Sanctuary City in the state for transgender and LGBTQ+ individuals, as community members passionately advocated for this status at a recent city council meeting. Alice Rosewater emphasized the alarming rise in discrimination and violence against LGBTQ+ people, citing a record number of anti-trans bills nationwide. Council members, including Jim Cooper, expressed strong support for the initiative, highlighting the need for prompt action before the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump. The proposed sanctuary status aims to protect vulnerable individuals from state-sanctioned discrimination and ensure their access to essential services. Miro Stuke pointed out findings from a discrimination survey indicating that over a quarter of the city's population identifies as LGBTQ+, with a significant percentage facing discrimination in various aspects of life.

This initiative could involve prohibiting local police from cooperating with extradition requests related to gender-affirming care and advocating for trans rights at the federal level. Jasper Marino articulated the urgent need for such measures, stating that being trans today feels like a fight for survival. The council's discussions signal a significant shift toward inclusivity and protection for marginalized communities in Olympia.