San Ramon Valley Diversity Coalition

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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Ramadan Kareem to all who observe.

May it bring peace, strength, and renewal to you and your loved ones.

We honor and celebrate our Muslim neighbors and the values of empathy and unity that Ramadan represents. Wishing you a meaningful and blessed month.

We extend warm holiday wishes to all in our community—those who celebrated Hanukkah, those celebrating Christmas, and those observing Kwanzaa. May this season be filled with peace, joy, reflection, and a renewed sense of connection with one another.

Let us all celebrate the sound of laughter, the warmth of love, and the glow of positivity. 🪔
Happy Diwali to you and your family.

Today, we honor Juneteenth — a powerful reminder of resilience, freedom, and the ongoing pursuit of justice.

On June 19, 1865, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation, enslaved African Americans in Texas were finally informed of their freedom. Juneteenth is a day to reflect on our history, celebrate Black culture and contributions, and recommit ourselves to equity and inclusion in our communities.

Let us learn, listen, and continue the work toward a more just future.

The San Ramon Valley Diversity Coalition is proud to sponsor this important event for our community.

We hope to see you then!

🌈