Atlantic City Raises the Pride Flag in Powerful Celebration of Inclusion and Community
In a vibrant and heartfelt display of unity, Mayor Marty Small, Sr. and City leaders gathered on June 12 to host Atlantic City’s 4th Annual Pride Flag Raising Ceremony, held in the Sheila Y. Oliver Courtyard at City Hall. The event marked a continued commitment to visibility, equity, and belonging for the LGBTQ+ community—not just in June, but every day of the year.
“Raising the Pride flag is more than tradition—it’s a declaration that in Atlantic City, everyone is seen, everyone is respected, and everyone belongs,” said Mayor Small during his remarks. “This is a city where inclusion is not just symbolic—it’s institutional.”
Turning Values Into Action
The ceremony also spotlighted one of the most tangible outcomes of Mayor Small’s commitment to diversity: the creation of the LGBTQ+ & Multicultural Services Department under his administration. The department was founded to ensure year-round advocacy, engagement, and access to resources for historically marginalized communities.
This bold step solidified equity as a permanent pillar of Atlantic City’s governance—ensuring that inclusion isn’t just celebrated during Pride Month, but embedded in the city’s day-to-day operations.
A Moment of Unity and Progress
Set against the backdrop of music, powerful speeches, and the rising of the rainbow flag, the courtyard was transformed into a joyful and reflective space where community leaders, elected officials, and residents stood together in solidarity.
As the flag reached full height above City Hall, it carried a message that echoed throughout the city: Atlantic City stands proudly with the LGBTQ+ community—in policy, in practice, and in purpose.
“We celebrate how far we’ve come,” said Mayor Small, “and we stay committed to the work still ahead—to ensure justice, equality, and opportunity for all.”
Building an Inclusive Future
This year’s Pride Flag Raising wasn’t just a ceremony—it was a call to action and a visible reminder that inclusion is a shared responsibility. It highlighted how government, community, and advocacy can come together to build a city rooted in compassion, representation, and courage.
By institutionalizing diversity and making space for every voice, Atlantic City continues to lead by example—proving that visibility, policy, and pride can go hand in hand.
Under Mayor Marty Small’s leadership, Atlantic City is not only waving the flag—it’s building a future where equity is embedded, community is celebrated, and no one is left behind.
