ABOVE: The Pride flag flies at the County Center in Tampa, photo via Hillsborough County.
TAMPA | Hillsborough County recognized the beginning of LGBTQ Pride Month June 1 by raising the Pride flag in front of the County Center.
The flag will fly over the entrance of its northeastern plaza throughout June. The annual tradition demonstrates the county’s support for the LGBTQ community, officials shared.
“It is a visible reminder that Hillsborough County government stands with the LGBT community in the effort to create a community where all people – regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression – are treated with dignity and respect,” the county said in a press release.
The flag raising was broadcast via social media after it was raised at first light.
“In trying times like this it’s always important to stop and take a breath and reflect on moments like these,” Hillsborough County Facility Management Services Director John Muller says in the video. “Hillsborough County is a very diverse community and we’re proud of our diversity.
“We’re also proud to share what we all have together,” he concludes, “which is our beautiful county; our home.” Watch:
The Board of County Commissioners will also declare June 2020 as LGBT Pride Month in the county during their meeting June 3 at 9 a.m. They will virtually present a proclamation to Tampa Pride, the city’s annual celebration which was postponed until 2021 in response to COVID-19.
“We want everyone to be safe and healthy,” Tampa Pride President Carrie West shared upon the announcement in April. He promised Tampa Pride 2021 will be back and bigger than ever.
West will virtually accept the county’s proclamation during the upcoming meeting. It encourages “all residents and visitors to eliminate prejudice everywhere it exists, and recognize and respect those who are dedicated to providing a safe and inclusive community in Hillsborough County.”
For more information about the meeting and county, visit HillsboroughCounty.org. For more information about Tampa Pride, visit TampaPride.org.
For the latest updates about COVID-19 and its impact on the LGBTQ communities in Tampa Bay and Central Florida, view Watermark’s frequently updated coverage here.
