Speakers urge Muskegon commission to declare sanctuary protections for LGBTQIA+ and reproductive care

Two members of the public used the meeting’s public-comment period to urge the commission to adopt local sanctuary protections for LGBTQIA+ residents and reproductive health services and to push the city to take a more public stand.

Lauren Sharp, who identified herself as a Nelson neighborhood resident and an activist, asked the commission to “make the city of Muskegon a sanctuary city for the LGBTQIA plus in women's health,” citing actions by larger cities and saying local protections could be “a catalyst for momentum.” Sharp said she had previously presented the idea to the commission and felt she had not received a substantive response.

Hannah Hilborn, who said she works at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and is active locally, echoed Sharp and urged the commission to build trust with immigrant, refugee and vulnerable communities before federal-level crises occur. Hilborn noted concerns about the removal of the pride flag at City Hall and said residents want to know “can we trust you when the terror comes here?”

What the meeting recorded: Both commenters spoke during the public-comment portion of the work session. Commissioners did not make a formal response or take action during the work session; the mayor acknowledged the comments and invited the public to complete written comment forms for the record.

Context and next steps: The speakers urged the commission to sit with local organizers and consider feasible local protections and support systems. No specific ordinance or resolution to establish sanctuary protections was introduced during this meeting. Any formal action would require an agenda item and a vote at a future city commission meeting.