Assemblymember Greg Wallis denounces Palm Desert proposal to limit Pride celebrations

PALM DESERT, Calif. (KESQ) - A proposal from Palm Desert Mayor Pro Tem Joe Pradetto to limit Pride month celebrations in the city is facing pushback from state Assemblyman Greg Wallis.

Earliert this week, Pradetto suggested the city end recognition for Pride month, including no longer displaying a Pride banner at City Hall.

In response, Assemblyman Wallis issued a formal statement condemning the measure on Saturday.

Wallis said in part, "Pride month recognition doesn't create division, it affirms that every resident deserves to be celebrated and respected."

The assemblyman also called it a 'slap in the face' to LGBTQ+ residents.

Speaking with News Channel 3 on Friday, Pradetto said he proposed the measure to highlight residents' similarities rather than differences.

"Who you love is a matter of personal liberty, and I believe that government must stand strong to protect those liberties. However, I do not believe that government should get in the business of celebrating the private identities of one group over another," Pradetto said in a city council meeting Thursday evening.

The City of Palm Desert said Friday, “At last night’s meeting, Mayor Pro Tem Pradetto made a formal request for Council discussion regarding Resolution 24-038 and a potential update to Resolution 2018-09. That request was approved for future agenda placement, but no action has been taken at this time."

As of now, the earliest this item would return to Council is the second meeting in January, though it may be February. It’s anticipated that any initial discussion would take place in a study session format, allowing space for a full and thoughtful dialogue among Councilmembers before any decisions are considered.

Stick with News Channel 3 for continuing coverage on this story.