Wyandotte deserves leadership that represents all of us—without exception.

Councilman Todd Hanna’s recent Facebook comments about transgender people were not just offensive—they were dangerous. In a now-deleted public post, Hanna referred to a transgender person and their partner as “sexually and morally confused” and suggested that the tragedy of a murder was somehow linked to their identity. He went even further, calling for a “public assassination”—a chilling phrase from someone in elected office, even if later claimed to be a mistake.

Though he has since apologized for some of the wording, Hanna made clear he stands by the underlying sentiment. That sentiment sends a message: that LGBTQ+ people are lesser, suspect, or even responsible for violence simply by existing.

As residents and allies of Wyandotte, we cannot ignore this. LGBTQ+ youth in our community already face elevated risks of bullying, isolation, and suicide. Public officials using their platform to promote harmful stereotypes only intensifies that danger. Words like Hanna’s don’t just hurt feelings—they contribute to a climate where discrimination, hate, and violence can grow.

Multiple fellow council members have distanced themselves from Hanna’s remarks, affirming that they do not represent the values of Wyandotte. But words are not enough. Accountability matters. A public position demands public responsibility.

We, the undersigned, are calling on Councilman Todd Hanna to resign immediately from the Wyandotte City Council. His continued presence on the council undermines the city’s progress toward inclusion, safety, and respect for all residents.

There is no place in our local government for rhetoric that dehumanizes our neighbors. Wyandotte is home to LGBTQ+ people who contribute to our schools, our businesses, and our neighborhoods every day. They deserve better. We all do.

It's time for new leadership—leadership that respects every member of this community.

Photo: Jose Juarez/Detroit News