We are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender people and allied friends who wish to honor Nelson Mandela and his fight for justice and equality for all, including us.

Our symbol of hope and liberation, the iconic and globally recognized rainbow flag, flies on public property at historic Harvey Milk Plaza in the Castro district of San Francisco and we wish to use our flag to honor Nelson Mandela.

President Barack Obama along with governments and people everywhere around our planet, are lowering flags out of deep respect for the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela.

Out of solidarity with South Africans at this time of Nelson Mandela dying, we request that San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee lower the City's rainbow flag at Harvey Milk Plaza starting immediately and continuing until Monday evening.

Signed,