On Jan. 2, the Beckley Common Council in Beckley, W.Va., approved “sexual orientation” and “gender identity” as official protected minorities in the city. The West Virginia Press reported that more than 330 people attended the emotional city meeting and an estimated 70 people spoke. While many attendees were enthused by the council’s decision, The Register-Herald reported that some were opposed, citing religious beliefs. Beckley is the 12th city in West Virginia to protect LGBTQ individuals from discrimination. — By Jamie Tews
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