HomeMy WebLinkAbout12 08 25 - Terry Hernandez - Support for Flag Rasing 2025P.O. Box 23773
San Jose, CA 95153
(408) 892-8986
www.pridesocialsouthcounty.com
November 25, 2025
Honorable Mayor & Gilroy City Council Members
City of Gilroy
7351 Rosanna St
Gilroy, CA 95020
Dear Honorable Mayor & Gilroy City Council Members,
I write to express my strong support on your 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 Queer/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 internationally.
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 sections 200-220 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 and cultivates
respect for LGBTQ+ students and cultivates a culture of allyship. Your actions made history in
2021 by raising the first Pride Flag in Gilroy’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.
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
Queer/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.
Respectfully,
Terry Hernandez and the Pride Social Board of Directors
President Pride Social South County
Terry@pridesocialsouthcounty.com