08/28/2026
The Consulate is proud to support the transfer of the original Pride flag from its home in San Francisco, to Co. Cork in Ireland, where it will be displayed internationally for the first time.
The flag – designed by artist Gilbert Baker in 1978 – features eight, coloured stripes and stands as a universal symbol of strength through diversity.
This transfer proves the strength of the relationship between San Francisco and Cork City, which has long been fostered by both the Consulate General of Ireland and the San Francisco - Cork Sister City Committee.
It was made possible after the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between San Francisco’s GLBT Historical Society and the Cork Public Museum, where it will be displayed.
When celebrating the flag’s arrival, the Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr Damian Boylan, highlighted the city’s motto, "Statio Bene Fida Carinis" ("A Safe Harbour for Ships"), and underscored Cork’s enduring commitment to being a place of shelter, protection, and comfort.
San Francisco shares this profound spirit of refuge; its own LGBTQ+ history traces back to the Gold Rush and was shaped heavily by serving as a discharge point for outed service members in the Pacific theatre of World War II.
Today, this shared legacy of sanctuary deeply connects the two sister cities with a mutual commitment to honour and protect their communities.
Last Autumn, Neale Richmond Richmond, TD, Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, saw first-hand the strength of the LGBTQI+ community in San Francisco’s Castro district, where he delivered remarks as a plaque honoring Roger Casement was unveiled on the city’s Rainbow Honor Walk [https://www.ireland.ie/en/usa/roger-casement-on-the-rainbow-honour-walk/].
Speaking about the transfer of the Gilbert Baker flag, Minister Richmond said:
“Initiatives such as this demonstrate the bonds of friendship between Ireland and the US and our LGBTIQ+ communities and helps to strengthen our ties.
“The iconic LGBTIQ+ flag carries profound cultural significance, history and is a symbol of inclusion, pride and togetherness.
“Over the past 25 years, there has been great progress in terms of equality for LGBTIQ+ communities, unfortunately that progress is under attack and too many are seeking to row back the many hard won gains.
“This is despite the fact that there’s actually far more to be done in terms of achieve of equality.
“For this and many other reasons I strongly welcome the temporary loan of the Gilbert Baker Rainbow Flag from the GLBT Historical Society to Cork Public Museum for exhibition in Cork.”
For more, watch the video below.
Embassy & Consulates of Ireland USA, The GLBT Historical Society, Cork City Council
