Janice Hahn Celebrates LGBTQ+ Pride at LA County Office of Education
Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn held a Pride Flag Raising Ceremony today at the LA County Office of Education in Downey. The event came just weeks after the Downey City Council’s narrow vote to stop flying the Pride Flag on city property. The event was organized in the wake of the Downey City Council’s vote for a “Neutral” Flag Policy
“There IS pride in Downey,” Hahn stated. “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 county facilities in Downey that will fly the Pride Flag for Pride Month, following a policy initiated by Hahn and Supervisor Lindsey Horvath. This policy, passed by the Board last year, mandates the Progress Pride Flag be flown at county facilities every June. Other participating locations include 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.
Downey Mayor Mario Trujillo, who opposed the city council’s flag ban, spoke at the ceremony, sharing his own coming out story. “We may have lost this battle, but we will win the war for fairness, equality, and acceptance for ALL,” Trujillo said. “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.”
Dr. Debra Duardo, Los Angeles County Superintendent of Schools, emphasized the importance of the flag. “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,” Duardo said. “This flag represents our dedication to creating a safe and affirming environment where every student feels a sense of belonging and well-being.”
The ceremony included remarks by Supervisor Hahn, Mayor Trujillo, Los Angeles County Assessor Jeffrey Prang, Dr. Duardo, Equality California President Juan Camacho, West Hollywood Mayor John Erickson, and drag performer Valentina from “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” with 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, marking the first time the Pride Flag was flown over a Los Angeles County building.
