Prepare to be moved by a momentous occasion as Los Angeles County elevates the spirit of Pride to new heights. A symbol of solidarity and progress, the Progress Pride Flag has been proudly hoisted over the distinguished Hall of Administration, making history as the first pride flag to grace a county building. This landmark act exemplifies the county’s unwavering commitment to standing by and uplifting the LGBTQ+ community.
The Board of Supervisors, led by visionary champions Supervisors Janice Hahn and Lindsey Horvath, unanimously approved a resolution that called upon the county’s Internal Services Department to raise the Progress Pride Flag during the entire month of June. As the LGBTQ+ community celebrates Pride Month, this gesture symbolizes a profound message of support, acceptance, and equality.
Supervisor Hahn passionately expressed the significance of this act, stating, “In a climate where anti-LGBTQ+ and anti-trans bills are gaining traction across the nation, Los Angeles County is proud to take a resolute stand. As the largest county in the country, we want to send a clear message that our LGBTQ+ residents have our unequivocal support.”
The iconic Gay Pride flag, first unfurled 45 years ago on Freedom Day in San Francisco, became an emblem of hope and resilience. Designed by Gilbert Baker with inspiration from gay activist Supervisor Harvey Milk, its vibrant and meaningful eight-colored stripes captured the essence of the LGBTQ+ community. Since then, it has served as a beacon of pride, love, and unity.
The Progress Pride Flag, a recent reimagination of the original symbol, carries the torch of inclusivity even further. Renowned artist Daniel Quasar crafted this updated version, incorporating additional black and brown stripes to honor marginalized communities of color and those lost to HIV/AIDS. The flag’s chevron shapes symbolize the continual need for progress and forward momentum, embodying the spirit of the LGBTQ+ rights movement.
While substantial strides have been made in the journey towards equality, certain governing bodies have regrettably chosen to restrict the display of Pride flags. The motion put forth by Hahn and Horvath underlines this unfortunate reality, citing the recent reversal of a unanimous vote in the city of Huntington Beach, which now permits only city, state, and national flags to fly at City Hall.
By raising the Progress Pride Flag at the Kenneth Hahn Hall of Administration, Los Angeles County boldly affirms its unwavering support for LGBTQ+ communities. While the exact number of county facilities displaying the flag throughout June remains unspecified, a separate ceremony was held at the county Department of Public Social Services building in Industry to commemorate this significant moment.
Supervisor Hahn, Supervisor Horvath, Supervisor Hilda Solis, county Assessor Jeff Prang, and District Attorney George Gascón graced the flag-raising ceremony at the Hall of Administration downtown. Also in attendance was Sister Tootie Toot, a dedicated member of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, a renowned LGBTQ+ activist group that has made headlines recently due to their inclusion in the Dodgers’ Pride Night celebration.
The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, recognized for their habit-inspired attire, have faced criticism from Catholic and Christian organizations, including the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, who argue that the group mocks and disrespects the church. In response, the Sisters passionately defend their nonprofit status and their extensive efforts to raise funds in support of marginalized LGBTQ+ communities. They regard their religious garb as a powerful response to faiths that condemn and seek to undermine the rights of the marginalized.
As the Progress Pride Flag majestically flutters above the Hall of Administration, it serves as a profound symbol of inclusivity, acceptance, and progress. Los Angeles County’s resolute commitment to supporting the LGBTQ+ community reverberates throughout the city, reminding us all that love and equality are the building blocks of a truly harmonious society. Let the flag inspire us to stand tall and united, celebrating diversity and embracing the beauty of every individual.
