The Los Angeles Post

Hahn Holds Pride Flag Raising Ceremony in Downey

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Event organized in wake of Downey Council vote for “Neutral” Flag Policy

Hahn raises pride flag over LACOE

Downey, CA (June 3, 2024) —Today, Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn held a Pride Flag Raising Ceremony at the LA County Office of Education in Downey, weeks after the Downey City Council narrowly voted to stop flying the Pride Flag on city property.

“There IS pride in Downey,” said Supervisor Janice Hahn. “I know the city council’s vote was painful for many LGBTQ residents, but I want all of you to know that your county government sees you, celebrates you, and supports you. We will continue to work until you feel you can live your truth loudly and proudly.”

The LA County Office of Education is one of eight Los Angeles County facilities in Downey that will fly the Pride Flag for Pride Month, following a policy authored by Hahn and Supervisor Lindsey Horvath passed by the Board last year to fly the Progress Pride Flag at county facilities every June. Other county facilities in Downey are Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center, the Los Angeles County Probation Department, the LA County Internal Services Department Headquarters, LA County Downey Animal Care Center, Los Padrinos, Los Amigos Golf Course, and the Los Angeles County Library Headquarters.

Crowd at Pride Flag Raising

“We may have lost this battle, but we will win the war for fairness, equality and acceptance for ALL,” said Downey Mayor Mario Trujillo, who voted against the flag ban and spoke at the event, sharing his own coming out story. “This vote was a setback, but I appreciate Supervisor Hahn for her support of the LGBTQ+ community and for making sure the Pride flag will rise in Downey in 2024.”

“The Pride Flag is a powerful symbol of our commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion. It signals to our entire community that we value and celebrate the rich diversity of identities and experiences that make us who we are,” said Dr. Debra Duardo, Los Angeles County Superintendent of Schools. “This flag represents our dedication to creating a safe and affirming environment where every student feels a sense of belonging and well-being. By fostering a culture of respect and inclusivity, we ensure that our schools are places where all individuals can thrive and be their authentic selves.”

The program ahead of the flag raising included remarks by Supervisor Hahn, Downey Mayor Mario Trujillo, Los Angeles County Assessor Jeffrey Prang, LA County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Debra Duardo, Equality California President Juan Camacho, West Hollywood Mayor John Erickson, and Valentina, a drag performer and contestant on RuPaul’s Drag Race, with entertainer Jewels serving as Mistress of Ceremonies.

Last June, Hahn hosted a ceremony to raise the Progress Pride Flag at the Kenneth Hahn Hall of Administration, celebrating the first time the Pride Flag was flown over a Los Angeles County building.