HomeMy WebLinkAbout12 08 25 - City of Gilroy Pride Month - Letter of Support Rivas
December 1, 2025
Honorable Mayor & Gilroy City Council Members
City of Gilroy
7351 Rosanna St
Gilroy, CA 95020
RE: Support for June LGBTQ+ Pride Month & Raising of the Pride Flag at City Hall
Dear Members of the Gilroy City Council:
I write to express my strong support on the agenda item to recognize June as LGBTQ+ Pride
Month & Raising of the Pride Flag at City Hall, which will heighten awareness of LGBTQ Pride
Month, as well as celebrate diversity, equity, social justice and inclusion.
The rainbow flag, also known as the LGBTQ+ pride flag, serves as a symbol of Lesbian, Gay,
Bisexual, Transgender, and Questioning pride and LGBTQ+ social movement. Today, celebrations
include pride parades, picnics, parties, workshops, symposia and concerts. The LGBTQ Pride
Month events attract millions of participants around the world. Memorials are held during this
month for those members of the community who have been lost to hate crimes or HIV/AIDS. The
purpose of the commemorative month is to recognize the impact that lesbian, gay, bisexual and
transgender individuals have had on history locally, nationally and intern ationally.
All children should be able to attend school in a safe and inclusive environment free from
discrimination. Civil rights laws and the California Education Code contribute to such
environments. The lack of awareness and understanding of issues facing LGBTQ+ children and
youth has contributed to higher rates of school dropout, academic failure, suicide and school
disengagement. Education regarding LGBTQ+ issues increases understanding, cultivates respect
for LGBTQ+ students, and cultivates a culture of allyship. Your actions were significant in 2021 by
raising the first Pride Flag in the city’s history and Gilroy Unified School District made history by
raising the first Pride Flag at their District Offices in 2024. Beginning in 2025, GUSD raised the
Pride Flag at all District Facilities and High Schools.
Gilroy City Council
December 1, 2025
Page 2
Acts of hatred against LGBTQ+ members of our community will not be tolerated; hate and
discrimination have no part in our community. According to the Library of Congress the month
of June is a time to celebrate our dynamic Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Questioning
(LGBTQ+) community, raise awareness of quality services, and foster a dialogue to promote
healthy and safe communities for all. I support this Resolution and urge your “Aye” vote.
If your office has any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to our office at
(831) 759-8676.
Sincerely,
R
ROBERT RIVAS
Speaker of the Assembly