Portsmouth Council hears proposals to declare city a sanctuary for LGBTQIA plus community

The Portsmouth City Council meeting held on April 14, 2025, focused on significant discussions surrounding the proposal to declare Portsmouth a sanctuary city for the LGBTQIA+ community and to establish it as a safe haven for gender-affirming healthcare. The meeting featured a series of public comments from residents advocating for these resolutions, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and safety for marginalized groups.

The session began with a resident expressing personal sentiments about the need for sanctuary status, emphasizing the emotional impact of discrimination on teenagers. This sentiment was echoed by Anne Yost, a local property owner, who shared a troubling incident involving her tenants from the trans community who faced verbal harassment. Yost underscored that while the sanctuary designation may not have legal enforcement, it sends a powerful message against intolerance.

Several students from Shawnee State University also voiced their support. Evan Sibberyl articulated hope for a future where respect and humanity prevail, while Kenzie Pennington highlighted the alignment of the proposed resolution with leading medical organizations advocating for gender-affirming care. Corinne Woods reinforced the notion that access to healthcare is a matter of dignity and survival for many in the LGBTQIA+ community.

Katie Cochran raised concerns about the council's recent decision to deny a water credit to community organizations aiding vulnerable populations, contrasting it with previous funding for recreational amenities. She called for an apology regarding the framing of the initiative as politically motivated, emphasizing the need for support for basic human needs.

Shelby Spradlin, a high school student, spoke against censorship and the importance of upholding constitutional rights for all individuals, particularly those in the LGBTQIA+ community. Gabriel Kearns also contributed to the discussion, advocating for Portsmouth to become a safe haven for LGBTQIA+ individuals, citing personal experiences that reflect the challenges faced by educators and youth.

The meeting concluded with a strong call for the council to adopt the resolutions, which aim to affirm Portsmouth's commitment to inclusivity and the protection of civil liberties. The council's decision on these proposals will be pivotal in shaping the community's stance on LGBTQIA+ rights and healthcare access.