Cities Embrace Pride Flags Despite State Law Controversies

Boise and Salt Lake City are flying the LGBTQ+ pride flag as official city symbols, despite state laws that typically restrict flag selection.

Quick Takes

Boise and Salt Lake City adopted the LGBTQ+ pride flags as official city symbols.
This decision circumvents state laws limiting which flags can be displayed on government properties.
Idaho and Utah laws typically restrict non-official flags like the American and military flags on government buildings.
Opposing voices argue the decision ignores broader legislative intent and promotes social division.

Cities Challenge State Laws

Boise and Salt Lake City councils have added the LGBTQ+ pride flags to the list of official city banners, allowing their display on city properties. This move circumvents new state-level restrictions meant to limit the variety of flags on government property. In February, Idaho implemented a law banning non-official flags from being flown in government spaces. However, Boise City Council responded by passing a resolution that makes the LGBTQ+ pride flag an official city symbol, thus permitting it to be flown on municipal buildings.

The decision has been met with mixed reactions. Meredith Stead, a Boise City Council member, highlighted its significance, stating that the removal of the pride flag “would signal a retreat from values we’ve long upheld.” A rally of about 100 supporters gathered in front of Boise City Hall before the vote, demonstrating public backing. Despite this, opposition remains. Idaho’s Republican Attorney General has warned Boise’s mayor about potential state fund denials if they fail to comply with the flag ban.

Salt Lake City’s Symbolic Adjustment

Salt Lake City’s council took a unique approach by incorporating a city symbol, the sego lily, onto the pride, transgender, and Juneteenth flags to meet state law requirements. Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall asserted their intent is to “represent our city’s values and honor our dear diverse residents.” Utah and Idaho laws typically allow only certain flags—namely, American and military flags—on government buildings.

“These city flags represent the ideas and principles Salt Lakers know as core tenets—belonging and acceptance, or better stated: diversity, equity, inclusion,” said Mayor Mendenhall.

While the adjustment appears to be a compromise, critics assert that such actions undermine state law’s intent. Supporters of Utah’s flag-related laws argue they ensure political neutrality and aim to maintain government spaces free from political influence.

Concerns about Legislative Intent

The measures taken by Boise and Salt Lake City to incorporate pride flags as official city banners have raised concerns over the implications for legislative integrity. Some view these actions as mockery of recent laws intended to standardize the types of flags on government properties. Boise has made the Pride flag and the Donate Life flag official city flags, alongside the traditional city flag. It follows backlash against restrictions on flying the Progress Pride flag.

“This law is about keeping government spaces neutral and welcoming to all. Salt Lake City should focus on real issues, not political theatrics,” said Republican House Speaker Mike Schultz.

Boise Mayor Lauren McLean’s proclamation designating the pride flag as an official city flag indicates a clear stance on diversity, equity, and inclusion, yet the controversy continues as to whether such municipal actions contradict broader legislative policies. Whether this approach proves inclusive or further divisive remains a question as the controversy unfolds.