By Logan Wells, News Director | Logan@kymnradio.net
Earlier this month, the Northfield City Council approved a resolution to make Northfield an LGBTQIA+ Sanctuary City. The resolution was brought forward by the city’s Human Rights Commission. Chair of the commission, Schuler Vogel, stated the reason behind the statement:
“It is such an important resolution in this kind of climate in this time when so many people across the country feel uncertain are worrying about their safety, worrying about their loved ones. And although a resolution on sanctuary could feel performative, what it does is sends a clear signal to all those in Northfield.” – Schuyler Vogel, Chair of the Northfield Human Rights Commission at the 8/4/2025 City Council Meeting
The proposal aligns with actions already taken by other Minnesota cities, such as Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Duluth, and supports the state’s existing “Trans Refuge” legislation.
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Councilor Brad Ness initially raised some concerns about the term sanctuary and its relation to the federal government. However, city staff addressed how the resolution was in line with Minnesota law. After discussion, and the rest of the Council backing the motion, Ness agreed to the language.
Several members of the public spoke in support of the measure, including Executive Director of the Northfield Union of Youth, Keli Podracky:
“It wasn’t our intention originally to move here. We were destined for the city because we knew the city was safe and we stumbled upon Northfield. But if it was loud and proud and clear, it would have been a city we sought out.” – Keli Podracky, Executive Director of the Northfield Union of Youth at the 8/4/2025 City Council Meeting
Councilor Kathleen Holmes shared why she supported the measure:
“I want to borrow some words from a past colleague who said something earlier in a public open comment: that the government exists to protect its people and I believe that’s what we need to do tonight.” – Kathleen Holmes, Northfield City Councilor at the 8/4/2025 City Council Meeting
The measure passed unanimously by the council.
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