Worcester City Councilor Thu Nguyen, who identifies as nonbinary, has not attended council meetings since February 11 due to alleged transphobia and discrimination. Despite these challenges, they have not resigned and continue to receive their city salary of $36,000 annually. Their absence is compounded by the political climate, which includes threats received by fellow councilor Etel Haxhiaj, who is also attending meetings remotely. Nguyen intends not to run for re-election while voicing solidarity with Haxhiaj on the importance of safety and addressing discrimination in local politics.
"This is a discrimination. This is a safety issue." Councilor Thu Nguyen expresses concern over safety and discrimination faced by councilors, supporting ally Etel Haxhiaj amid threats.
"Given previous acts of vandalism and non-stop harassment these last few years, I take my safety as a woman, mother, and immigrant very seriously," said Councilor Haxhiaj, highlighting ongoing safety concerns.
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