REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Action on a Resolution Authorizing the Display of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ) Pride Flag During the Month of June 2019, and Annually Thereafter in the Month of June
Report
BACKGROUND
The Stonewall Riots in New York City on June 28, 1969, was a historic turning point that sparked the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) civil rights movement; LGBTQ pride celebrations have taken place every June in recognition of the Stonewall Riots.
On November 13, 2012, the City of Santa Clara adopted Ordinance No. 1899 (Attachment 1) to protect and safeguard the right and opportunity of all persons to be free from all forms of arbitrary discrimination, including discrimination based on age, race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, disability, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, and sexual orientation.
In June 2017, the City of Santa Clara flew the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ) Pride flag for the first time in the City's history. The LGBTQ Pride flag was flown over City Hall again the following year in June 2018.
On August 28, 2018, the City Council approved Council Policy 48 (Attachment 2) titled "Display of Flags," which established guidelines for the exhibition of the United States of America flag, California State flag, City of Santa Clara flag, and the display of ceremonial flags at City facilities and at City Hall. Per Council Policy 48, the City Council may by resolution authorize the display of a ceremonial flag for a period of time that is reasonable or customary for the subject that is to be commemorated, but no longer than 30 continuous days.
On May 1, 2019, Mayor Lisa M. Gillmor issued a City proclamation proclaiming the month of June 2019, as LGBTQ Pride Month in the City of Santa Clara and encouraging the celebration of the progress made towards justice, equality, and full civic recognition for LGBTQ persons.
DISCUSSION
The LGBTQ Pr...
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