04/21/2026
Local Organizations Respond to San Ramon City Council Vote on Pride Flag
Date: 04/20/2026
San Ramon, CA — Local community organizations that support LGBTQIA+ residents, families and their loved ones expressed grave concern after the San Ramon City Council on April 14th debated whether to raise the Pride Flag during the month of June. The motion to fly the flag — a tradition the City has observed for five consecutive years — passed 3–1, with Councilmember Robert Jweinat publicly questioning the practice and ultimately casting the lone “no” vote.
While we are grateful that a majority of the Council upheld San Ramon’s recognition of Pride Month, the public questioning and opposition expressed by elected officials was deeply concerning. At a time when LGBTQIA+ individuals continue to face unprecedented and disproportionate challenges to their safety and well-being, visible support from civic leaders is not merely symbolic, it is essential.
Public resistance from those in positions of leadership risks undermining the sense of belonging, dignity, and protection that all members of our community deserve. We remain committed to fostering a San Ramon Valley where every individual feels seen, supported, and valued. We urge our civic leaders to reflect that commitment in both word and action.
“When civic leaders question whether LGBTQIA+ people deserve recognition, it undermines years of progress and harms those already facing stigma,” said Anuradha Gupta, President, PFLAG Danville-San Ramon Valley. “We call on all Councilmembers to lead with inclusion and to listen to the voices of marginalized residents who deserve this life-affirming recognition.”
“Flying the Pride Flag is about safety and visibility for vulnerable community members,” said Mitchell Hopson, Steering Committee, San Ramon Valley Diversity Coalition. “We thank the three Councilmembers who voted to continue the tradition and urge ongoing, concrete support for LGBTQIA+ services and policies.”
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