LA Lifeguard Sues Over Pride Flag Requirement
Los Angeles County lifeguard Captain Jeffrey Little has filed a lawsuit against the county Fire Department, citing religious discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. Little, who has served as a lifeguard for many years, claims that he was compelled to work under the Progress Pride flag during LGBTQ+ Pride month in June, which contradicts his religious beliefs.
Little's lawsuit argues that raising the Pride flag symbolizes and promotes controversial views regarding family, sexuality, and identity, which he contests. Initially, the Fire Department accommodated Little by assigning him to a beach without a Pride flag due to equipment limitations. However, in late June, he discovered the flag flown at Dockweiler State Beach, leading him to remove it, causing friction with his superiors.
The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors had unanimously voted in March 2023 to raise the Progress Pride flag at county facilities each June. This flag variation includes additional stripes representing marginalized LGBTQ+ communities and those affected by HIV/AIDS.
While Little acknowledges the county's authority to display the flag, he opposes being required to raise or be around it, viewing this as religious discrimination. Chief Deputy Orin Saunders of the Los Angeles Fire Department recently showed support for the Pride flag, underscoring its community value.