Governor Katie Hobbs Raises Pride Flag Over American Flag Once More

By Staff Reporter |

For the third consecutive year, Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs has made a significant statement in observance of Pride Month. On Monday, she raised the Pride flag above the American flags on the Executive Tower, reaffirming her commitment to LGBTQ+ rights.

“I’m proud to fly the Pride banner from the Executive Tower in celebration of Pride Month,” Hobbs declared. “I will always stand for the freedom of Arizonans to be who they are, love who they love, and live with dignity and without fear.”

The Pride flag now incorporates additional colors—light pink, light blue, and white—to symbolize transgender individuals, alongside black and brown to recognize people of color. This evolution reflects a more inclusive representation within the LGBTQ+ community.

Pride Month was officially recognized by the federal government in 1999 under President Bill Clinton. Initially termed “Gay and Lesbian Pride Month,” it was rebranded by President Barack Obama in 2011 to encompass a broader spectrum of identities.

In contrast, President Donald Trump did not formally acknowledge Pride Month during his first term. Arizona’s Pride Parade, notably, has roots dating back to 1981 in Phoenix, following the pivotal Stonewall Riots of 1970, which highlighted the struggle for LGBTQ+ rights.

Despite a climate of decreasing support from major organizations, Governor Hobbs has consistently shown her dedication to Pride. Recent comments from Google indicated that it would no longer feature Pride Month by default on its Calendar, citing challenges in recognizing numerous global cultural events.

Hobbs has flown Pride flags every summer since taking office. Last year, she vetoed a bill concerning gender transition care rights and, more recently, has blocked several proposals aimed at limiting LGBTQ+ protections in schools and legal documentation.

During her first Pride Month, Hobbs utilized an Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) drone to film the flag-raising, although public reporting was delayed due to extended response times from her office regarding records requests.

ADOT’s drone usage primarily focuses on inspections of state infrastructure. Hobbs has also engaged in public ceremonies to celebrate the flag unfurling while hosting discussions with community members to reflect on the significance of Pride Month.

Governor Hobbs’ initial executive order expanded protections against discrimination based on gender identity within state employment and contracts, underscoring her commitment to fostering an inclusive environment in Arizona.