As President Saul Jiménez-Sandoval stated on June 1 in a message to the Fresno State campus community, “it is important to recognize the important contributions of the LGBTQ+ community here at Fresno State. Our University is stronger because of the diversity of the LGBTQ+ students, faculty and staff who make significant contributions to teaching and research, scholarship, student leadership and volunteerism. They are an integral part of our bold excellence.”

In recognition, Fresno State will raise a rainbow pride flag at 12:30 on Wednesday, June 9, at the flagpole on campus just south of the Thomas Building.

Here is President Jiménez-Sandoval’s campus message in its entirety:

As we begin the celebration of Pride Month in June, it is important to recognize the important contributions of the LGBTQ+ community here at Fresno State. Our University is stronger because of the diversity of the LGBTQ+ students, faculty and staff who make significant contributions to teaching and research, scholarship, student leadership and volunteerism. They are an integral part of our bold excellence. Together, we are Fresno State! 

We also must recognize that the LGBTQ+ movement is one that is steeped in a history of pain and trauma. It is our role to stand in solidarity with our LGBTQ+ community and remain committed to advancing equality for all. Everyone should feel that the promises our country makes to all of us – of equal protection and opportunity – are honored here.

At Fresno State, we strongly reject intolerance. We are committed to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging, and we will only succeed when we have a genuine respect and care for each other. 

To our LGBTQ+ students, faculty and staff, you deserve to know that your Fresno State family is proud of you and stands with you as allies. You are respected, supported and valued.

We encourage you to participate in a number of activities coordinated by our Cross Cultural and Gender Center during Pride Month. For more information on those activities and LGBTQ+ programs and services, please visit https://www.fresnostate.edu/studentaffairs/ccgc/lgbtq/.