After Florida Republicans' failed attempt to ban Pride flags from government buildings earlier this year, several cities across the state hoisted the rainbow stripes to mark the start of Pride Month. Last year, Florida state Rep. David Borrero (R) introduced H.B. 901 to prohibit flags representing political viewpoints, including those related to sexual orientation and gender. The bill, which would have affected schools, government buildings, and universities, fortunately, did not pass. As a result, local governments continued flying Pride flags. Last week, St. Petersburg kicked off Pride Month by raising the Progress Pride flag at City Hall. The ceremony included U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor, state Representives like Lindsay Cross, Michele Rayner, Mayor Ken Welch, and the City Council. On Saturday, nearly 100 people gathered at the Gulfport Public Library in Pinellas County to witness the Progress Pride flag being raised. The event was attended by Vice Mayor Ian O’Hara, city council members, Pinellas County Commissioner Charlie Justice, School Board member Caprice Edmond, Gecko Queen Robert Daunch, and congressional candidates Whitney Fox and John Liccione. The same day, Miami raised the Progress Pride flag over City Hall, with Tampa and Orlando following suit on Monday. Tuesday morning saw Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava (D), County Commissioner Eileen Higgins, and other local leaders raise the Pride flag at the Stephen P. Clark Government Center, marking the fourth consecutive year of the Miami-Dade County government's participation. #Social Justice