HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-22-25 Public Comment - R. Keller - Public Comment_ City FlagFrom:Rosemary Keller
To:Bozeman Public Comment
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Public Comment: City Flag
Date:Sunday, June 22, 2025 6:24:56 AM
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Dear city commissioners:
As a resident of Bozeman, I am writing to let you know I am vehemently opposed to
the consideration of adopting the pride flag as the City of Bozeman flag. I am also
opposed to adopting ANY form of the flag, as a background or as any component in
the city flag.
It is NOT neutral in any way. A city flag, like our current flag is, should represent our
shared history and geography. The idea that a city flag should be a pride flag
represents only the residents who support pride, a political ideology. A pride flag or
any components of it, can only fuel division rather than inclusion. This contradicts the callsfor civil discourse from Mayor Cunningham and Deputy Mayor Morrison, especially aftertheir concerns about political violence, highlighting the need for a neutral flag to foster unity.
Missoula's adoption of the pride flag as their city flag is in direct opposition of HB 819, whichbans government entities from flying flags that represent any political viewpoint. We have nobusiness following their suit. It will result in a long, expensive litigation for Bozeman. Don'tspend our tax dollars supporting this political ideology.
Bozeman already makes it very clear that as a city government it supports the LBGTQcommunity with a multitude of proclamations, the "Belonging Plan," and support of manypride events.
Please, I ask you as the representatives of our city, to vote NO on a city flag that is in directopposition to ensuring that ALL voices, not just LBGTQ voices, are welcome here. The cityflag has no business supporting just one ideology or group.Please keep the city flag as itcurrently is.
Respectfully submitted,Rosemary Keller