Pride Flags Banned In Utah

Pride Flags Banned In Utah

Well, congrats, Utah! You became the first state to ban Pride flags...slow clap. Under much criticism, Gov. Spencer Cox allowed the ban to become law, even without his signature. Pride flags are no longer allowed in government buildings or schools. The law comes into play on May 7th with a $500 per day penalty for any party that violates the law.

The conservative party responsible for the Pride flag ban is saying it is not an attack on the LGBTQ community, as the law actually bans all flags other than government, military, or tribal-related flags. Wink, wink.

Gov. Spencer Cox has previously said that he had love and appreciation for the queer community. His allowing the law to pass seems to take priority over his warm and fuzzy feelings for our folks. In a statement, he said that he agreed that classrooms should remain politically neutral.  Since when did human rights and Pride become a political weapon? Opponents of Cox have called him cowardly. Here is part of Cox's official statement: “Politics can be a bit of a blood sport at times, and I know we’ve had our disagreements. I want you to know that I love and appreciate you and I am grateful that you are part of our state. I know these words may ring hollow to many of you, but please know that I mean them sincerely.” Is he being sincere?

 

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Not everyone is happy with the recent changes towards the queer community. When the ban was presented, the Salt Lake City and County Buildings put out Pride colored lights. A large number of demonstrators brought a 200-foot rainbow banner in front of the Utah state capitol. Salt Lake City is home to a high population of queer folk, and it was even named as a one of the queeriest US cities by The Advocate. The Visit Salt Lake City website talks about "tons of super gay stuff going on." Cox has stated that the ban does not apply to lights or posters. Some Utah teachers have stated that such bans are harmful towards queer youth and increase bullying and the stigma of being part of the LGBTQ community.

Changes towards the LGBTQ community in Utah convinced the famous Sundance Festival to move its event to Boulder, Colorado. This is huge for the economy of Utah.

 

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Will this start a domino effect in other States? We have seen how other initiatives like drag bans and anti-trans medical bills have sprouted up all over. The U.S. Departments of Defense, State, and Veterans Affairs have all issued regulations banning the flying of Pride flags from government buildings, military installations, and foreign embassies. We know our current administration is far from Pride-friendly, who knows how this move will spread like wildfire.

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