'The Pride flag is a symbol of hope and inclusion for the LGBTQ community. 'Today marks a new and important chapter in the city of Fresno as we demonstrate our commitment to equality and justice for all, and that includes our LGBTQ+ brothers and sisters,' Soria said.

'The flag raising was always going to happen,' she said to cheers. The event was spearheaded and emceed by Fresno City Councilmember Esmeralda Soria, who began her remarks by telling the crowd 'a little secret.' Many of Fresno's federal, state and local elected officials also attended along with local faith leaders, educators and advocates. Fresno police officers and Fresno firefighters also were on hand to assist. City staffers passed out rainbow face masks to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, and a young boy named Ethan who attended with his family passed out rainbow heart-shaped stickers. Upbeat music played, snacks were served and a rainbow balloon arch stood behind the speakers. After highly contentious political debate over the last couple weeks, hundreds of people from all over the San Joaquin Valley gathered at Fresno City Hall to celebrate Pride month and watch the historic flag raising.