Steps to Liberation - IDAHOBIT 2026: "The Heart of Democracy"

On International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia () 2026, Los Angeles will gather at Founders Metropolitan Community Church to unveil Steps to Liberation — a permanent rainbow arts installation and a clear declaration that LGBTQ+ dignity is not negotiable.

The program is one of hundreds of events planned worldwide with the 2026 global IDAHOBIT theme, “The Heart of Democracy,” which comes at a time when LGBTQ+ rights, democratic norms, and basic human dignity are being tested across the world.

• Silence is not neutral.
• Erasure is not accidental.
• Democracy does not survive on memory alone.

Steps to Liberation is the public dedication and unveiling of a permanent rainbow steps arts installation by Lynn Segerblom, co-creator of the original rainbow flags in 1978 — a visible, immovable declaration that LGBTQ+ lives belong in public space.

• Stairs are not passive.
• They lift.
• They carry.
• They require effort.

In 1978, the rainbow flag was created as an act of defiance and hope. Today, that legacy continues.

This program will include:

• Reflections from Lynn Segerblom, co-creator of the original rainbow flags

• A possible appearance and brief remarks from Troy Perry, founder of the first Pride marches

• Invited civic, faith, youth, and cultural leaders

• Musical guests & artists

• A rare exhibition of original 1978 rainbow flag photographs by photographer and original flag co-creator James McNamara

This is not a symbolic gesture. It is a public claim:

• That democracy must include us.
• That visibility is a civic act.
• That art can interrupt fear.
• That faith communities can lead.

As we approach the 50th anniversary of the rainbow flag and the 80th anniversary of the UN Declaration of Human Rights, this gathering asks:

• If democracy has a heart — who protects it?
• If freedom requires courage — who will step forward?
• If visibility saves lives — who will remain visible?

On this day, the steps themselves become testimony.

• Not decoration.
• Not nostalgia.
• Not retreat.
• A declaration.

All are welcome.

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