City of Richmond stands in solidarity with LGBTQ+ organizations amid political climate

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — The City of Richmond has issued a joint statement standing in solidarity with a number of LGBTQ+ organizations. The statement, posted to the City's official Instagram on Tuesday, is in response to a political climate that has challenged the protections of members of these communities.

Richmond has had a longstanding history of LGBTQ+ support. Events like Virginia Pridefest and the raising of the Progress Pride Flag at Richmond's City Hall have signaled an inclusive environment.

This safe haven has since been disrupted by measures targeting the LGBTQ+ community, prompting the city to amplify their voices.

“They [the city] actually reached out to us and said, 'How can we help?'" said James Millner, Pride Director of Diversity Richmond -- the organization featured in the shared Instagram post. "We invited them to participate in the work that we're doing to send a strong message to the community that Richmond is a welcoming and inclusive space for LGBTQ people, and it will remain so regardless of what is happening at other levels."

While the statement does not name any specific legislation, it acknowledges that a coalition of LGBTQ+ organizations is working alongside the City of Richmond to advocate against "harmful policies."

Recently, sweeping legislation has targeted LGBTQ+ protections -- from an executive order banning transgender people from serving in the military to the suspension of certain gender affirming care.

“It's no secret that the LGBTQ community is under attack," said Millner.

The statement sets expectations for policymakers and highlights organizations that are taking action. Millner says the city’s bold stance and support are a step in the right direction. 

“We are incredibly fortunate that we have a city government that recognizes us, sees the LGBTQ community, celebrates the LGBTQ community -- that, in this particular environment, is an anomaly right now," Millner said.

The statement did not mention any specific action, but Millner said there is a lot of work being done behind the scenes and that this is just the first step of their efforts.

The post ends with a call to action, encouraging people to stay engaged by advocating for LGBTQ+ protections and donating or volunteering with local LGBTQ+ organizations.