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St. Petersburg Delays Vote on Flags for Black communities and LGBTQ+ after DeSantis Erases Murals

October 15, 2025

St. Petersburg's City Council is considering approval of two flags, "Harmony" and "History," to recognize LGBTQ+ rights and racial history after Florida Governor Ron DeSantis ordered similar street murals erased. The council delayed voting on the resolution sponsored by council member Gina Driscoll, seeking more information about potential state retaliation and constituent opinions. The flags, designed by artist Andrea Pawlisz, would symbolize the city's commitment to diversity and inclusion, with plans to display them on city property during appropriate times like Pride month and Black History Month.

Who is affected

  • St. Petersburg residents and visitors
  • LGBTQ+ community in St. Petersburg
  • Black community in St. Petersburg
  • Artists whose murals were erased
  • St. Petersburg City Council members

What action is being taken

  • The St. Petersburg City Council is considering the approval of two flags recognizing LGBTQ+ rights and racial history
  • The council has delayed the vote to gather more information about potential state retaliation
  • Council members are seeking input from constituents on the proposed flags
  • The debate is continuing at a council committee meeting scheduled for October 23
  • The city is planning a response to the erasure of street murals ordered by Governor DeSantis

Why it matters

  • The flags would reaffirm St. Petersburg's commitment to diversity and inclusion
  • They represent a response to Governor DeSantis's erasure of street murals, which some view as censorship
  • St. Petersburg has historically been a bastion of LGBTQ+ rights and needs to address its racially segregated past
  • The flags would symbolize the city's identity and represent all its people
  • The situation highlights ongoing tension between local governments and state leadership regarding expression of social values

What's next

  • The debate will continue at a council committee meeting on October 23
  • Council members will gather more information about potential state retaliation
  • The council will seek additional input from constituents about the proposed flags
  • If approved, the flags would be flown on city property at "appropriate times" including Pride month and Black History Month

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint

St. Petersburg Delays Vote on Flags for Black communities and LGBTQ+ after DeSantis Erases Murals