Arlington Mayor Jim Ross says he is optimistic that the city’s Pride event could return despite tensions surrounding Arlington’s recent debate over sexual orientation and “gender identity” language.
Ordinance Fight Preceded Cancellation
As previously reported by The Dallas Express, the Arlington City Council voted 5-4 on December 9 to keep suspended sections of a city ordinance dealing with sexual orientation and “gender identity” off the books. City officials had warned that restoring the language could threaten more than $60 million in federal funding used for services such as public safety, parks, and road work.
Ross voted in favor of restoring the suspended sections, along with Council Members Nikkie Hunter, Andrew Piel, and Barbara Odom-Wesley. Council Members Mauricio Galante, Raul Gonzalez, Rebecca Boxall, Long Pham, and Bowie Hogg voted to continue the suspension.
Arlington Pride organizers later announced the suspension of the city’s 2026 Pride event after the council’s decision.
Ross Floats Another Path For Pride
Ross discussed the possibility of bringing the event back in a June interview, even if another group organizes it.
“I love what the HELP Center has done for this city, but I’ll tell you, the HELP Center and DeeJay don’t represent the entire LGBTQ+ community,” Ross said, according to the Fort Worth Report.
Ross was referring to DeeJay Johannessen, CEO of the HELP Center for LGBTQ+ Health, which sponsors Arlington Pride.
“I have a lot of friends who will say, ‘Listen, we wish Pride was still here,’ and I’m hoping we can bring it back. If it’s not through the HELP Center, maybe it’s another way, but I’m optimistic. We have some people who are excited about it, and I think it’s an important part of who we are.”
HELP Center Programming Draws Scrutiny
The HELP Center’s programming has become part of the broader local debate over LGBTQ+ advocacy, public health, and city recognition. The organization provides HIV prevention and treatment services and also promotes support resources for people who identify as “transgender.”
“Support groups offer individuals a chance to connect with those who have similar life experiences and discuss the challenges they face,” the organization states.
“It can be helpful to talk to people who will understand those unique parts of your life without needing an explanation.”
Ross Defends Inclusion
Ross also defended his broader philosophy of inclusion during the discussion.
“I don’t hide or try to suppress my desire to be inclusive of all people — Black, Latinos, Muslims, Asians, gays, straights, Christians, Buddhists,” Ross said.
“I don’t care. I’m not ashamed of the fact that I believe we’re all God’s creatures, and I think I’m very confident that the majority of Arlington feels the same way.”
As previously reported by The Dallas Express, Arlington City Councilmember Bowie Hogg criticized Ross last year after DX resurfaced 2018 footage showing Ross making vulgar and explicit remarks toward a Christian street preacher.
The Dallas Express reached out to Ross for additional comment, but did not receive a response by publication time.
