Greater Palm Springs Pride has announced a 15-day, $25,000 matching challenge to complete funding for the Landmark Pride Flagpole, a permanent symbol of LGBTQ+ visibility and equality at the gateway to the Arenas District.
Thanks to the generosity of community leaders Mark Porterfield and Steve Chadima, every dollar donated between September 29 and October 14 will be matched up to $25,000. The flagpole will feature the original eight-color Pride flag designed by Gilbert Baker, widely regarded as one of the most iconic pieces of LGBTQ+ art ever created.
“This flagpole is more than just a structure; it’s a powerful and permanent monument to the activists who have tirelessly fought for equality since the flag was first flown in 1978,” said Jasmine Sullivan Waits, Executive Director of Greater Palm Springs Pride.
Porterfield and Chadima added, “We believe in the welcoming and inclusive spirit of Palm Springs. This flagpole will be a lasting testament to that spirit.”
Located at Arenas Road and Indian Canyon Drive, the installation is expected to be completed in time for an official flag-raising ceremony the week of October 21. Donations can be made online at pspride.org/flagpole, and supporters are encouraged to act quickly to double their impact.