Fifty-eight years ago, when the world told the LGBTQ+ community to hide in silence and shame, Founders MCC in Los Angeles, California, USA dared us to live out loud. Recently, on May 17, our founding church in Los Angeles made that vibrant visibility permanent, unveiling a gorgeous rainbow-painted entryway on Prospect Avenue in Los Feliz.
Dubbed the “Steps to Liberation,” the project is part of a series of countdown events leading up to the 50th anniversary of the rainbow flag in 2028.
The stunning transformation was first suggested by Founders’ assistant pastor, Bam Noriega, who was inspired by Oak Lawn United Methodist Church in Dallas. When the state of Texas removed a rainbow crosswalk in Houston last year, Oak Lawn UMC boldly painted its own church steps in defiance. Noriega knew Founders MCC should bring that same spirit of radical visibility to LA.
“This is a bold statement to say that we will not be erased,” Pastor Noriega shared during the unveiling. “And if anything, we will be bolder than ever and more visible than ever.”
The celebratory ribbon-cutting ceremony brought together incredible generations of our movement’s history. The founder of our church denomination, Rev. Troy Perry, cut the ribbon alongside his husband, Phillip DeBlieck. Joining them was Lynn Segerblom, a co-creator of the original 1978 rainbow flag, who actually rolled up her sleeves and helped paint these very steps.
Local community leaders also showed up in solidarity, including LA City Council member and mayoral candidate Nithya Raman. The crowd was treated to a beautiful, mash-up duet of “The Rainbow Connection” and “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” performed by church attendees Kyler O’Neal and Shakina Nayfack.
For Founders MCC Senior Pastor, Rev. Keith Mozingo, the community response has already been deeply moving. As the steps were being painted, neighbors continually stopped to take photos, offer gratitude, and express how much the visible sanctuary meant to them.
As a global denomination, we celebrate with Founders MCC. In a cultural moment where our rights and dignity are continuously challenged, these rainbow steps stand as a physical sermon—an undeniable reminder that God’s grace is open to all, and that the steps toward justice are always walked in love.
The next time you find yourself in Los Angeles, come visit the historic intersection of faith and freedom at Prospect Avenue. Walk the Steps to Liberation, take a photo, and join us in praying for a future where every church entrance is a gateway of unconditional love.
Source: THEEASTSIDERLA.COM
