ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — St. Petersburg city officials raised its Pride flag Thursday, displaying the city’s commitment to inclusivity ahead of the state’s recently signed anti-DEI law.
The new law that goes into effect in January 2027 bans cities and counties from funding or promoting diversity, equity and inclusion programs.
The city’s new LGBTQ+ liaison, Nathan Bruemmer, was part of the ceremony and says leaders look to continue building a city where everyone feels welcomed and valued.
Bruemmer, who was appointed by Mayor Kenneth Welch in December, says he will focus on connecting with the community.
“It’s really about listening,” said Bruemmer. “What are the local stories? Whether they’re accomplishments or their concerns or their needs, what’s really happening here in the city that our city leaders, the mayor’s office, all of the departments need to be aware of?”
Whether he’s addressing a record-breaking crowd, like the one Thursday at City Hall, or sitting on a panel discussing economic opportunities, Bruemmer takes his role seriously.
“Right now, I think we’re seeing a lot of challenges to, I think, thriving for small businesses. We’ve got a lot of different programs with The Greenhouse and our economic development team, but we’ve got to make sure everyone knows about that,” said Bruemmer.
Facing adversity, the attorney and educator is now an advocate. He also has a history of leadership in major LGBTQ+ organizations.
“I’m a member of the LGBTQ community, I’m from the area, I grew up in the Tampa Bay area and there were challenges for me as a student, as an employee in different positions I had and there were many that came before me,” said Bruemmer. “The opportunities that I have today are because folks did the work before me, and I want young people moving forward to also have those opportunities so this is the cycle, this is what we give back.”