11. RESOLUTION 2025-45 - A RESOLUTION to take effect immediately provided it receives the affirmative vote of at least two thirds of the members of Council, or otherwise to take effect and be in force after the earliest period allowed by law, adopting the City of Lakewood Gender Freedom Policy in response to attacks on transgender rights at the state and national levels. (pg. 49)
Hello Council! I am unable to attend in person this evening, but do want to put my support on record. I am writing as the Senior Pastor of Lakewood Congregational Church, an Open and Affirming Congregation of the United Church of Christ, to be a voice of support for this resolution on behalf of my church family. Your resolution succinctly and poignantly articulates the need for any level of protection for the trans community that we can develop, so my comment is primarily to applaud the work you've done so far and encourage the work you will continue to do to protect the lives of many beloved transgender people in our community.
Your resolution points out the many very real concerns and fears about anti-trans legislation in our state and country. I am keenly aware of the harm done by faith communities and individuals of faith in the name of God, including elected officials and people in power who have used their religion to justify attacks on transgender rights. I am also keenly aware of faith communities like mine and several others in Lakewood, and our neighbors of other faiths or no faith, who are ready and willing to join you in your "commitment to enshrining and upholding transgender rights, equal protections and safety for transgender and gender diverse community members."
I know this resolution will pass without issue, but please know it matters deeply to our congregation, and we're so grateful to be a part of this community.
I support this resolution, thank you for listening!!
I support this resolution.
I support this resolution.
Hello Council! I am unable to attend in person this evening, but do want to put my support on record. I am writing as the Senior Pastor of Lakewood Congregational Church, an Open and Affirming Congregation of the United Church of Christ, to be a voice of support for this resolution on behalf of my church family. Your resolution succinctly and poignantly articulates the need for any level of protection for the trans community that we can develop, so my comment is primarily to applaud the work you've done so far and encourage the work you will continue to do to protect the lives of many beloved transgender people in our community.
Your resolution points out the many very real concerns and fears about anti-trans legislation in our state and country. I am keenly aware of the harm done by faith communities and individuals of faith in the name of God, including elected officials and people in power who have used their religion to justify attacks on transgender rights. I am also keenly aware of faith communities like mine and several others in Lakewood, and our neighbors of other faiths or no faith, who are ready and willing to join you in your "commitment to enshrining and upholding transgender rights, equal protections and safety for transgender and gender diverse community members."
I know this resolution will pass without issue, but please know it matters deeply to our congregation, and we're so grateful to be a part of this community.
Sincerely, Rev. Joanna D'Agostino