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Simi Valley proclaims June 2025 LGBTQ+ Pride Month; community asks council to raise pride flag
Summary
The council received a proclamation declaring June 2025 LGBTQ+ Pride Month. Tess Allen of Diversity Collective thanked the council and asked the city to consider raising the Pride flag; a public speaker urged broader health partnerships for LGBTQ+ residents.
The Simi Valley City Council presented a proclamation declaring June 2025 as LGBTQ+ Pride Month.
Senior management analyst Heidi DiNardo read the proclamation citing the Stonewall Inn events of June 28, 1969, and noting June as a time to remember injustice while celebrating LGBTQ+ residents’ contributions. Tess Allen, executive director of Diversity Collective, accepted the proclamation and thanked the council; she asked city leaders to "consider doing something a little uncomfortable to show your allyship, whether it's putting a small rainbow flag in your classroom or your office" and specifically requested the council consider raising the Pride flag at city facilities as a visible sign of inclusion.
Dr. Sandra Aldana, speaking under the public statements item, praised the proclamation and urged the council to go beyond symbolism by expanding partnerships with local health providers to ensure LGBTQ+ residents retain access to specialized care. Dr. Aldana said that some LGBTQ+ patients worry they may lose access to certain health services and recommended stronger, formal partnerships with local hospitals and clinics to create safe spaces for care.
Council members agreed by consensus to honor the request to light city hall during Pride week, and discussed returning with a formal council direction if members want the city to raise the flag at city facilities.
