Inclusive Flags of Salt Lake City and Boise
In a bold move against restrictive state laws, Salt Lake City and Boise have adopted new inclusive flags that celebrate pride, the transgender community, and Juneteenth. After the passing of House Bill 77, which threatens fines for displaying certain flags, both cities have reaffirmed their commitment to diversity and inclusion. Salt Lake City’s new flag design combines traditional symbols with those of marginalized communities, while Boise has retroactively declared the pride flag an official city flag. These actions highlight a strong community stand against exclusion and promote belonging.
Recently, Salt Lake City and Boise made headlines by taking a bold stand against state laws that aim to silence the voices of inclusion and diversity. Following the passage of House Bill 77, which restricts the display of certain flags—including those celebrating pride, the transgender community, and Juneteenth—these cities are showcasing their commitment to embracing all members of their communities.
House Bill 77 was enacted by the Utah legislature, establishing rules about which flags can be flown on government property. The law limits official flags to the Utah state flag, the U.S. flag, military and tribal flags, and the flags of specific colleges. Unfortunately, this legislation effectively bans other vibrant, meaningful flags that represent marginalized communities, imposing hefty fines of up to $500 per day on cities that dare to display “unofficial” flags.
In a heartwarming move, Mayor Erin Mendenhall of Salt Lake City proposed the design of three new city flags that blend the traditional sego lily—long a symbol of the region—alongside the pride, transgender, and Juneteenth flags. The Salt Lake City Council came together unanimously to approve these flags, making their decision just before HB77 officially became law. This response sends a clear message—that Salt Lake City champions the values of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
This new flag initiative, while it won’t replace the city’s main flag adopted in 2020, serves as a vibrant testament to the commitment that city leaders have to the LGBTQ+ community and advocates for social justice. By affirming the relevance of these flags, Salt Lake City is embracing the essence of belonging and love in its community. In fact, flags representing the Juneteenth, Progress Pride, and transgender communities have previously flown at City Hall during special observances, highlighting the city’s ongoing dedication to representation.
Across the border, Boise Mayor Lauren McLean took a similar stance, retroactively declaring the pride flag as an official city flag. This brave action aligns with the city’s values and responds to Idaho’s own flag restrictions. By doing so, Boise reinforces its commitment to celebrating all identities, echoing Salt Lake City’s sentiments of inclusivity.
It’s hard not to view HB77 as a divisive piece of legislation that targets specific communities, raising concerns about freedom of speech. Although Governor Spencer Cox expressed reservations about the bill, he allowed it to become law without a signature due to its veto-proof majority. This indicates a wider issue, as many other states are facing similar restrictions that aim to erase the visibility of marginalized communities.
The support for new flags in Salt Lake City was overwhelming among council members. Many vocalized that removing the pride flag would be a step back from the core values held within the community. In fact, the decision to celebrate diversity through these flags showcases an urgent need to stand firm against any form of exclusion.
With these newly adopted flags, Salt Lake City and Boise are paving the way for community pride and advocacy. Instead of hiding behind legislation that seeks to erase the colorful tapestry of diversity, these cities are standing tall in celebration of their people. Communities that continue to fight for equality and representation can inspire others across the country, showing that love and inclusion can triumph over divisive laws.
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