August 10, 2026

Hahn presents Ivan Sulic with an official recognition

Downey, CA – On Saturday, Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn crowned her longtime staffer Ivan Sulic “King of Downey Pride” at the sixth annual LGBTQ+ pride celebration held in Downtown Downey. Sulic serves as a senior deputy for Hahn in Downey and surrounding communities, as well as her Homeless and Housing Deputy, among other public roles. Since its inception, Downey Pride has been sponsored by Hahn’s office and organized by the Los Angeles Centers for Alcohol and Drug Abuse (LACADA) in collaboration with city leaders, including Councilmember Mario Trujillo.

“I can’t think of anyone more deserving of a recognition as special as this one,” said Supervisor Hahn. “Ivan represents the very best of public service. He brings heart and compassion to every role he serves, lifting up others and making people feel like they belong. Those are the values Pride celebrates, and those are the values that make us stronger.”

During the ceremony, Sulic was also honored by other public officials representing Downey, including Senator Bob Archuleta, Congresswoman Linda Sanchez, and Assemblywoman Blanca Pacheco.

Sulic has served on Hahn’s staff since 2011 when she was first elected to the U.S. House of Representatives. In her current role, Sulic has represented Hahn before constituents and has led initiatives related to issues such as LGBTQ+ resources, housing, and environmental conservation. Sulic was instrumental in the creation of the Whittier LGBTQ+ Community Center, which provides medical care, mental health services, workforce development, and other essential resources to the community. He also serves as Chairman of the Puente Hills Habitat Preservation Authority, which oversees more than 4,000 acres of protected open space and trail systems throughout the Whittier Hills.

Hundreds turned out for the sixth annual Downey Pride celebration in Downtown Downey

“I am deeply honored to be crowned Downey Pride King. This recognition is about so much more than me, it is a celebration of the incredible LGBTQ+ community, our allies, and everyone who has worked tirelessly to make Downey a place where all people are welcomed, valued, and celebrated,” said Ivan Sulic, King of Downey Pride. “I am proud to stand alongside so many inspiring individuals who continue to build a more inclusive and compassionate community. I look forward to using this opportunity to uplift others, celebrate diversity, and encourage everyone to live authentically with pride.”

“Ivan goes to bat for me and for this community every single day. It is long past time we celebrate him,” added Hahn. “Long live King Ivan!”

Downey Pride is held in the heart of the Downtown Downey district and draws hundreds of attendees from both the Southeast Los Angeles and Gateway Cities regions. The event features vendor booths, food trucks, and live entertainment including performances from drag artists and fashion shows. This year’s event included performances by Banda Orgullo Sinaloense and Snow Tha Product, among others.

Full biography of Ivan Sulic available here

Photos available for download:
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