Iconic Pink Triangle takes shape on Twin Peaks as San Francisco kicks off Pride Month

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- Pride Month in San Francisco is underway, marked by one of the city's most powerful and enduring symbols: the Pink Triangle rising once again on Twin Peaks.

An army of volunteers has begun assembling the massive installation: an acre of bright pink sailcloth that can be seen for miles across the city throughout June. The project, now in its 31st year, blends remembrance with celebration.

"The triangle started during the Holocaust to label homosexuals," said founder Patrick Carney, reflecting on the symbol's origins.

Once used as a mark of persecution, the Pink Triangle has been reclaimed by the LGBTQ+ community as a symbol of pride, resilience, and strength.

For Carney, organizing the installation each year remains deeply meaningful.

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"Even though we're remembering a tragic event, it's a community-building event. That's why we're here," he said.

Volunteers from across the Bay Area came out to help piece together the landmark display, including first-time participant Josh Bruck.

"I've always seen it, always admired it, loved what it's saying," Bruck said. "I didn't realize it was as easy as just jumping in."

Across the city, Pride celebrations also began at San Francisco City Hall, where Mayor Daniel Lurie raised the Pride flag.

"Happy Pride, San Francisco," Lurie said during the ceremony.

The event was briefly interrupted by activists protesting proposed city budget cuts to HIV health services, highlighting ongoing concerns within the LGBTQ+ community.

"This year, more than ever, in the middle of budget cuts that are going to hurt the queer community, Pride is about our celebration," said activist Anya Worley-Ziegman.

Lurie responded by pledging that the city will continue supporting HIV and AIDS services if federal funding falls short.

"When the federal government cuts HIV and AIDS funding, we will backfill as we always have," Lurie said.

In San Francisco, Pride Month has long been both a celebration and a platform for advocacy. Back on Twin Peaks, that dual message is taking shape with every piece of pink fabric laid into place.

"We're thrilled it's still going on," Carney said. "It shows persistence, longevity, and courage."

The installation is scheduled to be completed Saturday morning, followed by a public dedication ceremony at 10:30 a.m.