Trump Administration Reinstates Pride Flag at Stonewall National Monument

Mon Apr 13 2026 19:28:56 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

In a significant policy reversal, the Trump administration has decided to fly the rainbow Pride flag at the Stonewall National Monument, a symbol of LGBTQ+ history, following a lawsuit settlement.

The Trump administration has confirmed that the rainbow Pride flag will continue to be flown at the Stonewall National Monument, reversing its earlier decision to remove it. This change comes in light of a settlement agreement with LGBTQ+ groups and historical preservation advocates. The flag is set to be displayed prominently alongside the U.S. and National Park Service flags, marking a notable moment in the ongoing discourse surrounding LGBTQ+ rights and historical representation.

NEW YORK (AP) — The Trump administration agreed Monday to keep flying a rainbow Pride flag at the Stonewall National Monument, reversing course after earlier removing the banner. This decision comes as part of a settlement in a lawsuit from LGBTQ+ and historic preservation groups aimed at reversing the removal.

The Interior Department and the National Park Service stated their commitment to maintaining the Pride flag at the monument, confirming that it will only be taken down for maintenance or practical needs. Within a week, three flags will be displayed at the Stonewall monument -- the Pride flag between the U.S. flag and the Park Service flag.

The Pride flag had been central to discussions regarding President Donald Trump's management of the historic site, which is the first national monument dedicated to LGBTQ+ history.

After a prolonged campaign by activists, the flag was officially hoisted in 2022 during the Biden administration. Prior to this, the National Park Service removed the flag in February, citing compliance with federal guidance that limited flag displays.

The park service had previously described the monument's commitment to portraying the diverse histories of all Americans. However, LGBTQ+ advocates argued that the flag's absence was a targeted slight aimed at diminishing their visibility and rights.

After the removal, some Democratic officials and activists quickly raised a new flag, highlighting continued political engagement in supporting LGBTQ+ rights.

The Stonewall monument was created by former President Barack Obama in 2016, commemorating the location where a 1969 police raid led to the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement. Trump's administration has faced scrutiny for its approach to diversity and representation in national monuments and parks.