City Council - Civil Rights, Racial Equity, & Immigrant Advancement Committee Hearing on Docket #1670

Meeting Date: November 12, 2025, at 02:00 PM Governing Body: Boston City Council - Civil Rights, Racial Equity, & Immigrant Advancement Committee Type of Meeting: Hearing Attendees:

• Councilors: Benjamin Weber (Chair), Henry Santana, Sharon Durkan, Liz Breadon, Julia Mejia, Enrique Pepén, Brian Worrell, Gabriela Coletta Zapata, Edward Flynn
• Administration: Santi Garces (Chief Information Officer, Department of Innovation Technology), Samara Grossman (Director, Center for Behavioral Health and Wellness, Boston Public Health Commission), Julianne Lee (Executive Director, Mayor's Office of LGBTQIA2S Plus Advancement)
• Advocates/Public: Teddy Walker (Youth Leader, Protect Trans Futures), Sam Bruetsch (Youth Leader, Bagley), Craig Rasberry (Breaktime), Barry Andres (Youth Leader, Protect Trans Futures), Sal Khan (Out Newcomers), Jack Imbrogamo (Executive Director, Queer Neighborhood Council), Evan Greer (Director, Fight for the Future), DJ Baker (Community Activist), Antonio Mateo Garcia (Executive Director, HELP by AMG), Zari (Director, HELP by AMG), Muhammad Burhan (Founder, Intersectional Innovation and Impact Labs)

Executive Summary

The hearing on Docket #1670 addressed the critical need to ensure access to life-saving online resources for LGBTQIA+ and other marginalized communities in response to proposed state and federal digital censorship legislation. Councilors, administration officials, and community advocates emphasized that online spaces provide vital support, community, and information for vulnerable youth, particularly LGBTQIA+ individuals, and that proposed legislation like the Kids Online Safety Act (COSA) and the Screen Act, under the guise of child protection, would lead to harmful censorship and increased isolation. The discussion highlighted the city's efforts in digital equity, the severe mental health disparities faced by LGBTQIA+ youth, and the importance of Boston taking a proactive stance against digital censorship to protect its residents.

Agenda Item: Docket #1670 - Order for a hearing to ensure access to life-saving online resources for LGBTQIA plus and other marginalized communities in response to proposed state and federal digital censorship legislation.

Sponsor: Councilor Henry Santana Referred to Committee: September 17, 2025

Opening Statements

• Councilor Benjamin Weber (Chair):
  • Opened the hearing at 2:11 PM on November 12, 2025.
  • Stated the hearing is recorded and live-streamed.
  • Invited written comments to ccc.civilrights@boston.gov.
  • Announced public testimony would be taken at the end, with a two-minute limit per speaker.
  • Emphasized the hearing's purpose: to explore how Boston can proactively protect online freedom of expression, resources, and privacy for LGBTQIA+ youth and other marginalized communities, recognizing online spaces as life-saving platforms for community and mental health support.
• Councilor Henry Santana (Sponsor):
  • Stated that the LGBTQIA2S+ community is under constant attack through legislation seeking to restrict online communication.
  • Highlighted online spaces as essential lifelines for the community, providing protection from digital censorship.
  • Argued that proposed state and federal legislation, while framed as protecting minors, is not in good faith and would deeply harm youth by cutting access to vital resources.
  • Emphasized that digital censorship impacts other marginalized communities, including survivors of abuse and those seeking reproductive healthcare.
  • Stated that criminalizing access to information is an impermissible attack on basic freedoms.
  • Affirmed Boston's role in protecting residents' rights to free expression, privacy, and access to life-saving resources.
  • Expressed eagerness to hear from panels, especially youth, to understand impacts and explore protective measures.

Panel 1: Youth Advocates

• Craig Rasberry (19-year-old trans man, Breaktime):
  • Shared personal story of fleeing Texas due to political climate and fear of conversion therapy.
  • Relied on queer organizations for stipends and support while in Virginia and homeless in Boston.
  • Stated that if online resources were censored, he "would not be here" and would still be at "square one."
  • Emphasized the harm of covering up LGBTQ+ resources, as they are "make or break" for individuals in crisis.
• Sam Bruetsch (Queer trans man, Youth Leader, Bagley):
  • Shared that much of his identity discovery happened online during lockdown, particularly through YouTube.
  • Stated that the internet is where he finds community and organizations like Bagley.
  • Expressed fear that censorship would prevent individuals from finding support and organizations from reaching youth in need.
• Teddy Walker (They/them, Youth Leader, Protect Trans Futures):
  • Shared experience growing up in South Texas, where the internet was the first exposure to queer community and authentic representation.
  • Stated that online spaces allowed learning about identity (non-binary, transmasc) and prevented "decades" of delayed transition, isolation, and self-loathing.
  • Highlighted the role of online spaces in envisioning a future and fighting for community rights.
  • Discussed Protect Trans Futures' use of Instagram, Threads, and Facebook to reach "thousands of people," including 80,000 views in one month, for organizing events, sharing resources, and connecting with allies.
  • Argued that regulated and inaccessible content would hinder community care.
• Barry Andres (Youth Leader, Protect Trans Futures):
  • Shared experience growing up in Catholic institutions and the vital role of online communities in self-discovery and connection.
  • Emphasized that online elements are crucial for understanding oneself and connecting with others who share similar experiences.

Discussion with Panel 1

• Councilor Sharon Durkan:
  • Expressed gratitude for testimony and work.
  • Shared personal experience growing up in rural Georgia with limited access to resources.
  • Asked what the City of Boston can do in the online space to ensure access to affirming resources, particularly regarding mental health.
  • Stated opposition to censorship, comparing it to "abstinence-only" approaches.
  • Acknowledged Fenway Health's importance but questioned its decision to end gender-affirming care for minors and 18-year-olds, noting the institution's receipt of millions in grants for expanding such care.
  • Teddy Walker's Response: Argued that the city should apply the same scrutiny to local institutions like Fenway Health as it does to national attacks on LGBTQ+ rights, emphasizing that "there's no for all without trans youth and also 18 year olds." Questioned Fenway's priorities given its history of cutting programs for low-income individuals with HIV/AIDS.
  • Councilor Durkan's Follow-up: Committed to an offline conversation, acknowledging the difficult decisions institutions face but reiterating the need for access to life-saving care.
• Councilor Brian Worrell:
  • Thanked panelists for standing up against federal attacks.
  • Highlighted the nearly 600 bills attacking LGBTQ+ rights nationwide and the growing LGBTQ+ youth population in Massachusetts.
  • Emphasized the need for Boston to boost resources, spaces, and protections, and to "not be wavering on our values."
  • Stated that sometimes "sacrificing" is necessary to protect community members.
• Councilor Edward Flynn:
  • Thanked the Chair, Sponsor, and panelists.
  • Recalled working closely with Boston Children's Hospital during bomb threats targeting trans youth healthcare access.
  • Reiterated the critical role of Fenway Community Health Center and the South End Health Center.
  • Affirmed continued advocacy for civil and human rights for LGBTQ+ youth.
• Councilor Gabriela Coletta Zapata:
  • Thanked the makers of the docket and panelists for their courage.
  • Shared attending a Planned Parenthood rally against defunding, connecting it to the broader issue of vital federal funds being taken away.
  • Asked how proposed legislation like COSA and the App Store Accountability Act would impact local organizations and access to resources for queer and trans youth in Boston.
  • Sam Bruetsch's Response: Stated that Bagley provides gender-affirming clothes, shoes, toiletries, therapy services, and "radical aid" ($70,000 in the past year), primarily found through Instagram. Censorship would prevent youth, especially those from out of state, from finding these services.
  • Teddy Walker's Response: Emphasized that social media is the primary way Protect Trans Futures builds community, informs about meetings, and shares resources.
  • Councilor Coletta Zapata's Follow-up: Expressed concern about requirements for government identification or biometric data, especially for immigrant communities.
• Councilor Henry Santana:
  • Stated no questions for the panel, as the hearing order was written in partnership with them.
  • Reiterated that censoring online resources impacts "housing, food, stability," and "saves lives."
  • Thanked panelists for their courage in "very scary times."
• Councilor Julia Mejia:
  • Thanked panelists for their leadership.
  • Stated her office met with Fenway Health's CEO regarding gender-affirming care.
  • Announced her office is working on establishing a commission for trans and LGBTQIA+ communities to strengthen support.
• Councilor Enrique Pepén:
  • Thanked the Chair and Sponsor.
  • Expressed concern about federal attacks and the impact of acts like COSA and the Screen Act on youth, particularly LGBTQIA+ youth.
  • Emphasized the importance of feeling accepted and represented.
• Councilor Benjamin Weber:
  • Expressed concern about Fenway Health's changes, recalling its historical leadership in HIV testing.
  • Thanked the panel and dismissed them.

Panel 2: Administration Officials

• Santi Garces (Chief Information Officer, Department of Innovation Technology - DOIT):
  • Highlighted the city's commitment to digital equity, ensuring access to high-quality, affordable internet, devices, content, and skills.
  • Stated that federal telecommunications and platform regulation is largely outside city jurisdiction, but emphasized the importance of all voices participating in policy discussions.
  • Presented findings from the Digital Equity Survey:
    • LGBTQIA+ community members use free Wi-Fi resources 5% more than the average Bostonian.
    • Digital equity gaps exist for public housing residents, low-income individuals, formerly incarcerated people, veterans, and non-English speakers.
  • Discussed DOIT's work:
    • Partnering with Boston Housing Authority and Mass Broadband Institute to improve affordable internet access.
    • Digital navigation efforts to train and support residents in accessing resources and digital skills.
    • Refurbishing city computers for redistribution to those in need, enabled by City Council action.
    • Digital Equity Fund: awarded grants to partners, including nine organizations working with LGBTQIA+ individuals.
  • Wicked Free Wi-Fi:
    • Described it as a "no-cause tool" with minimal filtering (blocking only dangerous or illegal content).
    • Expanded footprint to Nubian Square, Mattapan Square, Eggleston Square, Maverick, Malcolm X Park, Hyde Park, and Tobin.
    • Serves approximately 39,000 unique users monthly, with significant usage in Maverick (2,500) and Nubian Square (5,000).
• Samara Grossman (Director, Center for Behavioral Health and Wellness, Boston Public Health Commission - BPHC):
  • Stated BPHC's mission to protect and promote health, especially for those impacted by racism and systemic inequities.
  • Presented data on LGBTQIA+ youth in Boston and Massachusetts, noting high concentration in Boston.
  • Highlighted findings from the Community Health Needs Assessment and Health of Boston Mental Health Report:
    • LGBTQIA+ youth experience higher rates of mental health issues (sadness/hopelessness, self-harm, suicidal ideation/attempts).
    • Intersectionality exacerbates these disparities.
    • Emphasized that online access is "abundantly clear" as a life-saving resource.
  • Cited Trevor Project findings: online resources are crucial for belonging, especially when in-person support is lacking.
  • Discussed BPHC's support for LGBTQIA+ youth:
    • Partnership with HRIA for "train the trainer" programs for youth workers on LGBTQ+ mental health.
    • ARPA funds allocated to the Capacity Building and Training Institute for deep dives into LGBTQ+ youth needs.
    • Creation of LGBTQ+ mental health resource sheets (QR code provided).
• Julianne Lee (Executive Director, Mayor's Office of LGBTQIA2S Plus Advancement - MOLA):
  • Thanked Council for the hearing.
  • Stated MOLA's mission to improve outcomes and remove systemic barriers for LGBTQIA2S+ residents.
  • Highlighted MOLA's work through inclusive policies, community-centered programming (e.g., Beyond Pride Grants, Gender Affirming Assistance Grants), and digital resources.
  • Presented MOLA's key online resources:
    • Guidebook on Navigating Discrimination: In partnership with Northeastern University and Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination, available on boston.gov/LGBTQ.
    • LGBTQI2S Plus Resource Hub: First centralized digital space for housing, healthcare, mental wellness, and community organizations.
    • Pride 365 Calendar: Online community calendar for events and support spaces.
  • Emphasized that online access is "public health," "safety," and "community care," and can be a "lifeline."
  • Cited data: LGBTQIA2S+ youth connected to affirming online communities are 45% less likely to attempt suicide; 71% of BIPOC LGBTQIA2S+ youth find crucial mental health support online.
  • Stated MOLA's readiness to collaborate to protect online freedoms and access to affirming resources.

Discussion with Panel 2

• Councilor Henry Santana:
  • Asked Santi Garces about City Hall Wi-Fi vs. public Wi-Fi, data collection, and blocking of websites/apps.
  • Santi Garces' Response:
    • City Hall Wi-Fi is part of the same network (Bonet) but has private and public access.
    • DOIT generally does not track individual user data on Wicked Free Wi-Fi, only aggregate usage.
    • Any city record is subject to public records laws and subpoenas.
    • Wicked Free Wi-Fi uses minimal filtering, blocking only malicious/illegal activities, not social media or dating apps.
    • DOIT collaborates with queer community organizations through the Digital Equity Fund to identify needs and inform strategy.
• Councilor Edward Flynn:
  • Asked if the city is partnering with other medical facilities to fill gaps left by Fenway Health.
  • Samara Grossman's Response: BPHC is not currently partnering with specific medical facilities but is working internally to highlight existing and future services. Offered to follow up regarding Children's Hospital or other community health centers.
  • Julianne Lee's Response: MOLA has the Gender Affirming Identity Document and Assistance Grant Support Program to help residents secure documentation for healthcare access.
  • Samara Grossman's Response: ARPA funds are going to Franciscan Children's for mental health care in BPS schools and to UMass Boston for training LGBTQ-affirming mental health counselors.
  • Councilor Flynn's Follow-up: Asked about the city administration's official position on Fenway Health's service reduction.
  • Julianne Lee's Response: MOLA released a statement in conjunction with BPHC and offered to provide it.
• Councilor Julia Mejia:
  • Asked Santi Garces about safeguarding digital privacy and equitable access in light of federal restrictions, and how DOIT strengthens partnerships for online safety education.
  • Santi Garces' Response: DOIT works with LGBTQIA+ groups on gender-aware design and data standards, avoiding gender data collection unless absolutely necessary to prevent privacy risks. Emphasized training on digital literacy, privacy, and security.
  • Asked Julianne Lee if MOLA monitors federal/state policy changes and what local policy proposals could be implemented.
  • Julianne Lee's Response: MOLA monitors policy changes and works with other departments to ensure affirming internal policies. Emphasized asking the community for helpful initiatives.
  • Asked Samara Grossman about data gaps and what a helpful study would look like for BPHC.
  • Samara Grossman's Response: Emphasized the need to disaggregate data to understand intersectional identities and identify who is in most need of specific services.
  • Councilor Mejia's Follow-up: Encouraged considering the role of community health centers and BPS in filling gaps, and legislative/budgetary support for BPHC.
• Councilor Enrique Pepén:
  • Asked how the city could create a "pushback campaign" if federal legislation like COSA passes, ensuring residents know resources are still available.
  • Santi Garces' Response: The city is committed to providing useful and accurate information on Boston.gov, partnering with BPHC and MOLA. Acknowledged the complexity of regulating platforms and the limitations of city jurisdiction.
  • Councilor Pepén's Follow-up: Suggested pushing the Attorney General's office for state-level resistance against federal attacks on freedom of speech.
• Councilor Benjamin Weber:
  • Asked Samara Grossman about BPS's role in supporting LGBTQ+ youth mental health.
  • Samara Grossman's Response: BPS works hard, but funding for community partners is a concern. Highlighted ARPA-funded programs like Flourish Agenda for trauma-informed school system transformation and supporting staff.
  • Asked Santi Garces about the city's ability to make resources available if federal laws block them.
  • Santi Garces' Response: COSA primarily targets platforms, not municipal websites. The city will continue to support content on Boston.gov, which is accessible to all.
• Councilor Henry Santana:
  • Asked Samara Grossman about the sustainability of ARPA-funded programs.
  • Samara Grossman's Response: BPHC is seeking grants and partnerships to continue capacity-building programs, especially "train the trainer" models. Some funding will end, but efforts are underway to find sustainable solutions and evaluate program impact.
• Councilor Julia Mejia:
  • Asked about strategies to ensure residents can access trustworthy online information for mental health and gender-affirming care.
  • Samara Grossman's Response: BPHC continually releases resources through social media and updates its website.
  • Julianne Lee's Response: Encouraged using boston.gov/LGBTQ and invited organizations to list their services.
  • Councilor Mejia's Follow-up: Emphasized the need to move beyond "check-the-box" approaches and expand partnerships beyond traditional leadership, including barbershops, laundromats, and bodegas.
  • Samara Grossman's Response: BPHC is exploring "task-sharing approaches" and applying for grants to expand training to parents, youth, barbers, stylists, and librarians.
  • Muhammad Burhan's Response: Emphasized collaborative efforts and incorporating equity standards into city-wide operational systems.
  • Evan Greer's Response: Highlighted that while municipal websites are exempt from COSA, people find resources through social media, which would be censored. Argued the city has a vested interest in protecting these pathways.
  • Muhammad Burhan's Response: Shared personal experience of being banned from Meta, highlighting the dangers of algorithms and the need for intersectionality in tech. Criticized the lack of collaboration between city departments and community groups, and the "cycle of violence" in current approaches. Stated that censoring marginalized voices is "gaslighting" and that the issue is also a racial and intersectional justice issue.

Panel 3: Community Advocates

• Sal Khan (All pronouns, Openly queer migrant activist, former ICE detainee, Founder of Out Newcomers):
  • Stated that COSA is a "censorship bill dressed up in friendly language" and a threat to communities, youth, and the right to exist.
  • Argued that politicians weaponize tools against queer and trans people.
  • Shared personal story of being abducted by ICE and how online spaces (Bagley, #FreeSal campaign) mobilized support for his release.
  • Emphasized that for queer migrants, the stakes are higher, as they flee criminalization and rely on online resources for safety, legal help, housing, and community.
  • Called for legislation that protects from real harms (exploitation, abuse, cyberbullying, data mining) without giving the federal government a "censorship switch."
  • Demanded "safety, not censorship," "digital freedom, not surveillance," and a future where queer and migrant communities can thrive.
• Jack Imbrogamo (He/him, Executive Director, Queer Neighborhood Council, Transgender man, Parent):
  • Expressed strong opposition to COSA, the Screen Act, and efforts to weaken Section 230.
  • Described the internet as a "life raft" and "critical infrastructure for survival" for queer youth, immigrants, survivors, and BIPOC individuals.
  • Stated that online communities provide validated spaces for researching care, finding legal aid, and connecting with peers.
  • Argued that censorship bills, framed as child protection, create a "fatal flaw" by incentivizing preemptive self-censorship by platforms to avoid lawsuits, leading to suppression of essential mental health resources and LGBTQIA+ content.
  • Stated that such legislation would make his children "more isolated and less able to find the education they desperately need."
  • Warned of a "surveillance-heavy digital ecosystem" that disproportionately harms the most vulnerable.
  • Called on Boston City Council to oppose these laws, advocate against them, and invest in digital literacy programs.
• Evan Greer (She/they, Director, Fight for the Future, Parent of BPS student):
  • Acknowledged that most issues are federal/state but emphasized the city's role in speaking with a clear voice.
  • Stated that the resolution pushes back against the "demonization of resources for youth."
  • Compared censorship bills to "abstinence-only sex education" and "book bands," arguing they are rooted in the false idea of protecting kids by silencing them.
  • Cited a US Surgeon General report and a letter from 1,000+ parents of trans youth: access to social media can be a "lifeline" for LGBTQ+ kids, leading to better mental health outcomes.
  • Advocated for privacy legislation, cracking down on data collection, and breaking up big tech companies to address harms without censoring marginalized communities.
  • Urged Boston to adopt thoughtful policies that protect trans rights while addressing tech harms.
• DJ Baker (They/them, Community Activist, Doula, Former Teacher):
  • Stated that the internet, despite dangers, allows access to resources and exposure to diverse experiences for queer youth.
  • Argued that COSA and the Screen Act limit parents' ability to raise their children and access information.
  • Emphasized "informed consent" and "evidence-based science" in policy-making.
  • Shared experience as a teacher where online access was crucial for effective education.
  • Stated that limiting access is a civil and human rights issue, especially for people of color.
  • Called on Boston to be a "path to those resources," making MOLA and other agencies connect community-based organizations.
  • Suggested Boston be a resource itself, creating more opportunities like the proposed commission and a trans youth shelter.
  • Encouraged the city to explore legal challenges against federal legislation, citing First Amendment concerns.
• Antonio Mateo Garcia (Queer Latino trans man, Disabled veteran, Executive Director, Help by AMG):
  • Quoted Huey Newton: "The revolution has always been in the hands of the young."
  • Shared personal story of experiencing homelessness and finding support through in-person and online connections.
  • Described Help by AMG's work providing free inclusive community closets with culturally and gender-affirming items.
  • Argued that bills like COSA would directly impact the communities served by organizations like Help by AMG, Trans Exchange Boston, Bagley, Boston Glass, and Gems.
  • Asked the city to consider whether blocking services would protect children more than harm them.
  • Emphasized that youth deserve to feel seen, access what they need with dignity and safety, and build bridges to trusted peers and adults.
• Zari (Director, HELP by AMG, Trans person, Native Bostonian):
  • Shared personal story of coming out at 14, becoming homeless at 16, and finding life-saving resources through online spaces and Bagley (alumni).
  • Co-founded Trans Exchange Boston (online group, 3,000 members) to connect people with safe medical care, clothing, advice, and community.
  • Highlighted the importance of online resources as people from other states flee to Massachusetts.
  • Compared online resources to daily apps like Google Maps or weather apps, emphasizing their vital role.
  • Stated that without these resources, she "would not be here."
  • Urged City Council to think thoughtfully, continue conversations, and open pathways for youth.
• Muhammad Burhan (Founder, Intersectional Innovation and Impact Labs, Technical Expert):
  • Stated, "The people united will never be defeated," emphasizing the power of unity on social media.
  • Shared personal story of growing up in Pakistan, not seeing queer representation, and discovering his identity and community through social media during COVID-19.
  • Described being permanently banned by Meta in 2021, highlighting account deletions and biased moderation.
  • Argued that legislation like COSA threatens marginalized youth, claiming to protect them while doing the opposite.
  • Stated that Boston lacks intersectionality across its systems and that the innovation sector often fails to integrate with grassroots communities.
  • Advocated for ethical oversight in AI development, transparency in algorithms, and diversifying the AI sector.
  • Stated that censoring marginalized voices is "gaslighting" and that AI bias is a racial and intersectional justice issue.
  • Warned that authoritarian regimes follow US precedents to suppress queer and trans existence worldwide.
  • Criticized Senator Warren and Markey for supporting COSA, despite their allyship.

Closing Remarks

• Councilor Henry Santana:
  • Thanked all advocates for their presence and work, acknowledging the personal nature of their advocacy.
  • Expressed frustration with the ongoing attacks and the importance of community convening.
  • Committed to concrete steps and working with colleagues to advance the work.
  • Encouraged continued communication and accountability.
• Councilor Julia Mejia:
  • Thanked advocates for bringing their "full selves" and "rage" into the chamber.
  • Emphasized that attacks on LGBTQIA+ communities are "training grounds" for broader assaults on civil liberties.
  • Called for "swift action" at the local level, not just "lip service."
  • Highlighted the upcoming ordinance (expected to pass on the 19th) as a tool in this defense.
  • Advocated for deconstructing power and expanding responsibility beyond MOLA to all city departments.
  • Muhammad Burhan's Response: Emphasized collaborative efforts and integrating equity into city operational systems.
  • Evan Greer's Response: Reiterated that while municipal websites are exempt from COSA, the platforms that allow people to find those resources are not, giving the city a vested interest in opposing censorship.
  • Muhammad Burhan's Response: Shared a personal anecdote about being offered a fellowship instead of a full-time role despite extensive experience, highlighting the lack of recognition for queer talent within city structures and the need to challenge biases.
• Councilor Benjamin Weber:
  • Thanked Councilor Santana and all participants.
  • Reflected on the pattern of targeting marginalized groups (immigrants, trans community, refugees, SNAP recipients).
  • Committed to working together to push back and stand by Boston's neighbors and friends.
  • Adjourned the hearing on Docket #1670.