Worcester, Massachusetts, has officially voted to become a sanctuary city for transgender individuals, reinforcing its commitment to protecting gender-diverse residents as the Trump administration enacts policies targeting the LGBTQ+ community.
The resolution, introduced by resident Allie Cislo on behalf of the Queer Residents of Worcester and Our Allies, called on the city council to establish Worcester as “a sanctuary and place of safety for transgender and gender-diverse people.” As Massachusetts’ second-largest city, Worcester’s decision is a significant statement in support of trans rights.
The move follows a series of executive orders issued by President Donald Trump during the early weeks of his second term, including policies declaring that the United States officially recognizes “only two sexes.” Additional measures have barred transgender individuals from serving in the military, prohibited trans women from competing in female sports, and restricted gender-affirming healthcare for transgender people under the age of 19. The administration has also eliminated diversity, equity, and inclusion programs across federal agencies and the military.
Despite the largely symbolic nature of the resolution, it establishes Worcester’s stance on gender-affirming care as “a matter of health, privacy, and equality.” The measure, passed in a 9-2 vote, ensures that no city resources will be used to detain individuals for seeking or providing gender-affirming care. Additionally, the city will not cooperate with external agencies attempting to enforce anti-trans policies.
“As a sanctuary city, Worcester will not collaborate with federal or state policies aimed at harming transgender and gender-diverse people,” the resolution states. “We will ensure they have access to healthcare, housing, education, and employment without fear or discrimination.”
Cislo expressed gratitude for the city council’s decision while acknowledging that not all members supported the resolution. “It’s disappointing that it wasn’t unanimous, but we’re very pleased that Worcester has affirmed existing Massachusetts law and reiterated that Worcester is a sanctuary for trans and gender-diverse people,” Cislo told the Telegram & Gazette.
Worcester joins a growing list of U.S. cities that have taken similar steps. Kansas City, Missouri; Ithaca, New York; and Sacramento, West Hollywood, and San Francisco, California, have all declared themselves trans sanctuary cities. Sacramento’s resolution, passed in March 2024, emphasized the city’s role as a leader in trans rights and its commitment to protecting transgender individuals as several states implement restrictive policies.
In addition to trans-specific sanctuary cities, broader LGBTQ+ sanctuary designations have been adopted in places like Lake Worth Beach, Florida. In September 2023, city officials there declared the municipality “a safe place, a sanctuary, a welcoming and supportive city for LGBTQ+ individuals and their families, to live in peace and comfort.”
As more cities take a stand, Worcester’s decision signals a growing pushback against federal efforts to restrict transgender rights. The resolution sends a message that, within its jurisdiction, Worcester remains committed to inclusivity, safety, and equal rights for all residents.