Three decades after the gay pride flag was created, gays and Lesbians are hoping to take its powerful symbolism to a new level—sharing space on flag poles around Miami Beach.

Old Glory got company from the pride flag in Miami Beach's City Hall this week. Mayor Matti Herrera Bower ran the Gay Pride Flag up the flag pole, making what some would call a bold statement.

"I don't think this a bold step," said Herrera Bower to CBS4. "I think that this is just another step to making a whole city, a city that really welcomes Gays and lesbians."

Up until recently the gay flag was banned from being flown under city law.  - So NO, it was not a bold step. It was a political move!  The change of heart comes less than two weeks after submitting a letter of intent to bid on selection as host city for Gay Games IX, Miami Beach, Fla.

"All gay and lesbians are welcome on Miami Beach," announced Michael Aller during the flag raising Monday night. Some might view this statement as a formality, as Miami Beach has been known to be one of South Florida's most gay friendly locations, and thousands of tourists know it.

With a new amendment passed by the city commission, all that changed, allowing it to be flown anywhere, including government buildings.

"It's a historic day for us," said resident Luis Randazzo. "The gay flag is a representation of diversity. It represents equality. It represents the cultural identity of the community." 


The mayor says the flag will be posted intermittently at government buildings. Businesses will likely keep it up year round. The Miami Beach commission is hoping they are on the forefront, paving the way for the rest of South Florida.

Miami is currently bidding to host the IX Gay Games in 2014. It's competing with  cities worldwide, including Washington D.C., Cleveland and Boston.