St. Petersburg wrapped the front steps of City Hall in the colors of the pride flag ahead of its Pride celebration, according to a June 2 report. The temporary installation comes as the city navigates recent state policies restricting diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives within local governments.
Mayor Ken Welch said the display honors St. Petersburg’s LGBTQ+ community while adhering to legal restrictions that led to the removal of street murals last year. “In St. Pete, we are proud to support our LGBTQ+ community and wrapping the City Hall steps in the Pride flag colors is part of our continuing effort to support our friends and allies,” Welch said. “Although we are living through a time when the state is restricting local government’s ability to celebrate and honor all of our residents, our focus remains on recognizing and paying tribute to all who make up the very fabric that makes our city so unique. When I became Mayor, I promised our residents that inclusivity would be at the forefront of my administration, and that’s a promise we continue to deliver on.”
The Florida Department of Transportation ordered cities last year to remove street art deemed noncompliant with regulations on social, political or ideological messaging. In response, St. Petersburg staff have sought alternative ways for public displays within legal boundaries; last year they installed 11 bike racks inspired by pride themes at Central Avenue and 25th Street—an intersection previously home to one of five prominent street murals removed during statewide enforcement.
Recent state policy also targets diversity efforts beyond public art in St. Petersburg by prohibiting counties and municipalities from funding or promoting DEI programs under SB 1134; this law voids existing policies tied to such initiatives.
The city has maintained roles dedicated to advancing inclusion across municipal programming—including an LGBTQ+ Liaison—even as it adapts departmental names following new regulations.
“Art creates an opportunity to explore new forms of expression that reflect the character of St. Petersburg — ones that can continue to showcase creativity and highlight the values that define the city,” Chief of Staff Doyle Walsh said. “Following the disappointing removal of the street murals last year by the State, City staff continues to explore options that go beyond street art while meeting legal requirements. Not only does this temporary installation at City Hall resonate with those who call St. Pete home, it speaks to who we are as a community.”
The city’s Pride celebration is scheduled for Thursday at City Hall with events beginning at 8 a.m., including a ceremonial raising of its pride flag at 9 a.m.
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