HONOLULU (KHON2) — Gov. Josh Green will hold a ceremony to raise a pride flag at the state capitol for Pride Month, marking the first time the flag has been displayed at the capitol.
The ceremony will include a presentation of the official Pride Month proclamation and will occur at the state capitol on June 2 at 7:45 a.m.
“In Hawaiʻi, aloha is more than a word — it’s a value that guides how we treat one another, with love, respect and dignity,” Green said. “Flying the pride flag at our state capitol is a proud reflection of that aloha, as well as our deep commitment to inclusion. While other places are pushing people to the margins, Hawaiʻi is leading with compassion and courage — recognizing that our Māhū and LGBTQIA+ communities have always been a valued part of our story, and always will be.”
The flag initiative is led by Lui Pua ʻAla Queer Histories of Hawaiʻi project in collaboration with the state’s LGBTQ+ Commission, and is also supported by a number of local community organizations.
“The pride flag is more than a banner — it is a beacon of hope, unity and resilience,” said Lei Pua ʻAla co-Director Dean Hamer. “Flying it at the capitol sends a message that in Hawaiʻi, all people are valued and seen.”
This celebration comes during a time where over a dozen states across the country have passed laws banning, or are considering banning, pride flags in government spaces and public areas.
In Hawaiʻi, Māhū people have historically been a pillar in traditions, culture and way of life, often serving as revered healers, caretakers and teachers.
“This is a significant moment for our state,” said Vice Chair and project lead for the state’s LGBTQ+ Commission Michael Golojuch, Jr. “By raising these flags, we recognize both the struggles and the strides of our diverse Māhū and LGBTQIA+ communities.”