Palm Springs Restaurant Owner Refuses to Remove Pride Sign After Landlord's Request

A Pride-themed sign displayed outside a downtown Palm Springs restaurant has become the center of a conversation about inclusion and representation during Pride Month.

The sign, displayed in the windows of Saffron Restaurant and Lounge, features the colors of the Pride and transgender flags and includes the messages "Pride" and "You Are Safe Here."

Owner Ashley Stein said she was recently asked by her landlord to remove the sign, a request that she said left her upset.

"I was really honestly quite upset," Stein said. "At that point, what I did was I took to Facebook Live. I did not say his name. I just mentioned someone in the community is expressing their dislike for this sign and asking it to come down."

Stein said she originally installed the sign in August after recognizing what she felt was a need for year-round support and visibility for members of the LGBTQ community.

Despite the request, Stein said she has no plans to remove the display and has received an outpouring of support from customers and community members.

Many supporters say symbols like the sign can help people feel welcomed, accepted and represented.

One community member said the display carries personal significance.

"I grew up in a very strict religious home where it is not supported, but here I feel safe. Here I feel seen and heard," they said. "Having businesses and supporters like Ashley is important."

Palm Springs is widely recognized for its large LGBTQ community, and many residents say visible signs of support remain meaningful even in a city known for its inclusiveness.

Stein said she plans to keep the sign in place and hopes it continues to serve as a welcoming symbol for anyone who walks through the restaurant's doors.