HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-22-25 Public Comment - K. Bergevin - Proposed Pride Flag as the Official City FlagFrom:Kathy Bergevin
To:Bozeman Public Comment
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Proposed Pride Flag as the Official City Flag
Date:Sunday, June 22, 2025 5:54:50 PM
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Dear Commissioners,
I am writing to you concerning Commissioner Bode's suggestion at the June 17th commission
meeting that Bozeman follow Missoula, adopting the "pride" flag as the city's official flag as
soon as possible, and disregard HB 819 that defines which flags can be displayed in or on
governement property, and was signed into law in May. Adopting this flag as the official city
flag would be a direct defiance of that law.
The purpose of the city flag is to serve as a symbol of shared identity and civic unity. The city
flag should represent ALL in the community, as a whole, and currently does. It should be a
non partisan emblem that flies over our city buildings.
I feel the city commission must reject efforts to turn the city flag into a political symbol. It sets
a bad precedent for future commissions, and adopting the pride flag as the city flag further
polarizes our community. Adopting the pride flag as the city flag undermines the very
inclusive environment you say you advocate for.
A non partisan flag, or keeping the current flag as is, is the only way to ensure that all voices
are truly welcome in this community, and going forward, to not erode the public's trust. Also,
a respect for the law is a foundational principle of good governance and ensures public trust.
In conclusion, I would like to urge you to not take up this clear defiance of the law and the
divisive nature it purports. Thanks for your consideration and time.
Sincerely,
Kathy Bergevin