FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- A kickoff to Pride.

"We are standing tall, we are standing proud, and we are here with love," said Fresno City LGBTQ+ liaison Robin McGehee.

Several dozen people gathered outside Fresno City Hall on Friday to raise the Pride flag.

"It's a message that in Fresno, everyone is welcome," said Fresno City Mayor Jerry Dyer.

City councilmember Annalisa Perrea hosted the event with other local leaders to recognize those making an impact in the community.

Officials also recognized the importance of showing support for LGBTQ+ residents.

"I know my time in the police department, I saw far too many times where young people in our community either committed suicide, or they were the victim of a hate crime, simply because the fact that they were gay," said Dyer.

The flag

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