HomeMy WebLinkAbout07-08-25 Public Comment - J. Verreth - Progress Pride FlagFrom:Jona Verreth
To:Bozeman Public Comment
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Progress Pride Flag
Date:Tuesday, July 8, 2025 8:24:18 AM
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Dear City Commissioners,
As a longtime resident of Bozeman, I urge you not to adopt the Progress Pride flag as asymbol representing our city. We should not give in to a culture of fear or pressure. Just as no
one would consider me hateful for choosing not to fly the Stars and Stripes at my home, ourcity should not be labeled as intolerant for choosing to fly only the American flag.
The American flag already carries deep meaning—it represents the sacrifices made forfreedom, unity, and equality. To add another flag risks diminishing that significance. The flag
of the United States stands for a nation that welcomes people of all backgrounds and beliefs. Itsymbolizes a place where individuals with differing opinions and identities can live together in
peace.
I was born and raised in Belgium before moving to Bozeman in 2005. Naturalized Belgians
are a very small minority in this city. Yet, I would never expect or demand that Bozeman flythe Belgian flag to acknowledge people like me. The American flag already represents
inclusion—even for someone like me who came from another country. That is the power andbeauty of it.
Flying the American flag communicates that this city values Jews, Christians, Muslims,atheists, LGBTQ+ individuals, immigrants, and people from all walks of life. It is a unifying
symbol. Adding another banner beside it—even with good intentions—risks division and theunintentional exclusion of others.
I hope Bozeman continues to be a place where all people are welcome under one flag. Let theStars and Stripes speak clearly for us all.
Sincerely,
Jona Verreth407 Sanders Ave
Bozeman, MT 59718