The Holyoke City Council has put off a vote on a resolution to proclaim the city a hate-free space.

City councilors on Tuesday debated for an hour on what defines a group in need of protection. Councilor Jossie Valentin proposed the resolution and is frustrated by the delay.

“Why do we have to debate acceptance so much when, in my opinion, it should be a no-brainer,” Valentin said Wednesday.

The draft resolution said the city is committed to advocating for the rights of residents regardless of their race, religion, sexuality or immigration status.

MassLive reports that during the hearing, Councilor Dan Bresnahan said the resolution should specifically extend to protect Christians and Christian beliefs.

Councilors voted to send the resolution to committee for further discussion.