LA County Firefighter Sues Over Pride Flag Requirement, Citing Religious Beliefs

A devout Christian lifeguard in Los Angeles County has filed a lawsuit against the fire department, alleging that he was forced to choose between his job and his faith when he was ordered to raise the rainbow Progress Pride flag at his station.

In March 2023, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors passed a motion requiring the Progress Pride flag to be flown at county facilities throughout June, known as LGBTQ "Pride" month. Captain Jeffrey Little, a longtime Los Angeles County Fire Department lifeguard, requested a religious accommodation that would exempt him from personally raising the Pride flag at his station, citing his Christian beliefs.

His request was initially granted, but two days later, Little's supervisors ordered him to fly the flags. When he refused, he was told that his religious beliefs "do not matter." The chief then hoisted the flag himself and informed Little it must fly there the entire month.

Afterward, Little was removed from his role on a background investigation unit despite his "exemplary record." He also allegedly received a death threat against him and his daughters at his family home.

For the remainder of the month, Little was forced to use up his vacation time to avoid flying the Pride flag at his work station. As Pride month approached this year, Little once again sought a religious accommodation, but his requests were "essentially ignored," prompting him to seek legal counsel.

Little's lawsuit alleges religious discrimination, retaliation and harassment, and violations of the First Amendment. His lawyer argues that his client's accommodation request is "so narrow" and puts no burden on his employer, making it an easy accommodation to grant.

The suit seeks "damages and injunctive relief—a temporary restraining order and permanent injunction—to protect Captain Little’s religious rights during Pride Month." The Los Angeles County Fire Department declined to comment on personnel issues or ongoing litigation.

The case has sparked a debate about religious freedom and the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals in the workplace. Some argue that employers should be required to accommodate religious beliefs, while others believe that employees should not be able to discriminate against protected classes.

The outcome of the lawsuit could have significant implications for religious freedom and LGBTQ+ rights in the workplace.