The Kansas City Council has approved a resolution declaring the city a “sanctuary city for reproductive rights” and “gender-affirming care.” In doing so, the city is defying state legislation introduced to restrict access to abortion and gender-affirming care like puberty blockers and hormone replacement therapy for minors. The move comes as Missouri is expected to become the only US state without a legal abortion clinic on Friday, June 18. Similarly, cities like Austin, Texas, have taken similar measures in opposition to state actions to restrict rights for transgender people.
The council’s resolution directs city officials not to prosecute anyone who helps women obtain abortions or those who travel elsewhere for the procedure. Furthermore, the resolution includes language protecting access to birth control, sterilization, and fertility services, expressing the city’s opposition to restrictions on reproductive health care.
Regarding gender-affirming care, the resolution specifies that the city will not prosecute or fine anybody who seeks, provides, receives, or helps someone’s access to gender-affirming care, including surgery, puberty blockers, and hormones. It also states that the enforcement of any state legislation or resolution that imposes criminal or civil punishments, fines, or professional sanctions for gender-affirming care will be the lowest priority for personnel in the city.
Governor Mike Parson is expected to sign into law the ban on gender-affirming care for minors, joining at least 16 other states that have enacted similar laws restricting or banning such care. The proposed emergency rule from Republican state Attorney General Andrew Bailey that would require adults and children to undergo more than a year of therapy before accessing gender transition treatment is also under consideration.
The Kansas City LGBTQ Commission has released a letter urging city hall to declare the city a “safe haven” for gender-affirming care, while Councilwoman Andrea Bough said the city council is working on crafting a resolution that would protect Kansas City’s trans community. The Center for Inclusion is discussing launching a mutual aid fund to help people afford gender-affirming care while Vivent Health notes that other states and cities have passed legislation establishing themselves as sanctuaries for gender-affirming care and said doing so is essential for trans people in Missouri.
In conclusion, the resolution highlights the city’s commitment to reproductive and gender-affirming care, even as state legislatures push back against such access across the US. Kansas City joins cities such as Austin, Chicago, and Baltimore in declaring itself a sanctuary city for reproductive and gender-affirming care. These actions reflect the growing efforts of local authorities to protect the rights of individuals and communities against federal and state legislatures’ discriminatory policies and ensure equitable access to reproductive and healthcare services for all.
This article was generated by AI. We strive to provide the highest quality content possible and value your feedback. Please let us know if you have any concerns or suggestions regarding this article.
