Portsmouth residents urge city council to declare sanctuary for LGBTQ individuals

During the Portsmouth City Council meeting on April 14, 2025, community members passionately advocated for the city to become a sanctuary for LGBTQ+ individuals, emphasizing the urgent need for safety and inclusivity in light of recent legislative actions targeting this community.

Several speakers highlighted the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ residents, particularly those who are transgender or non-binary. They shared personal experiences of discrimination and the mental health struggles that arise from a lack of support and acceptance. Abby, a local outreach worker, noted that a significant portion of the unhoused population she encounters identifies as LGBTQ+, often facing barriers to housing, employment, and healthcare due to discrimination.

Andrew Blevins, another resident, urged the council to pass a resolution designating Portsmouth as a safe haven for gender-affirming healthcare. He pointed out the increasing attacks on transgender rights at both state and federal levels, stressing that such a resolution would affirm Portsmouth's commitment to dignity and equality for all residents. Blevins emphasized that major medical organizations support gender-affirming care as essential for the well-being of those who seek it.

Rebecca Slusher, a student at Shawnee State University, expressed her fears about living in a community where she feels unsafe due to her identity. She recounted instances of discrimination and called for Portsmouth to become a sanctuary city for LGBTQ+ individuals, arguing that such a designation would send a powerful message of acceptance and support.

Other speakers, including educators and local business owners, echoed these sentiments, detailing the harmful effects of recent state laws on LGBTQ+ youth and the broader community. They called for Portsmouth to take a stand against discrimination and to foster an environment where all individuals can thrive without fear of persecution.

The meeting underscored a collective desire among residents for Portsmouth to be a welcoming place for everyone, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation. As discussions continue, the council faces the challenge of addressing these community concerns while considering the implications of their decisions on the lives of Portsmouth residents.