HomeMy WebLinkAbout07-08-25 Public Comment - M. Fessenden - Comment on the Pride flag issueFrom:Maris Fessenden
To:Bozeman Public Comment
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Comment on the Pride flag issue
Date:Tuesday, July 8, 2025 9:24:22 AM
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Dear Bozeman City Commission,
My name is Maris Fessenden, and I’m a resident of Bozeman. I work at an anchor
business on Main Street, am a performance artist, and serve on the Board of
Directors of Queer Bozeman, where I work to strengthen the LGBTQ+ community in
Bozeman. I’m queer, trans, and nonbinary.
When I see the Pride flag flying – on a home, a business, or on a pin worn by a
person I’m meeting – I know that the space and interaction I’m entering is one where
I can bring my self, uncensored. I know that I can focus on what matters to me:
uplifting my community and the individuals within it, creating art, and working to leave
the world a better place.
When I don’t see the Pride flag, that’s a signal for caution. As a visibly non-gender-
conforming person, I may not be listened to. I may be harassed for just trying to use a
restroom. I may even be in danger of violence or being killed.
That’s extreme, yes, but most people who belong to marginalized groups know that
one must take extra steps, be extra aware to stay safe. We’ve all been called slurs,
many of us have experienced violence simply because we are visibly Queer. The
necessary vigilance we had to learn is draining. It robs us of our full potential, and it
robs society of our contributions.
That’s the reality now, but it doesn’t have to be that way. We can, collectively, work
together in big and small ways to ensure that all people have the same rights and
access to those rights. That’s what building a society together is all about.
Flying the Pride flag does not guarantee that people have access to life-saving
healthcare, job opportunities, or equitable housing. Indeed, these things are denied or
threatened to be withheld from the LGBTQ+ community while Pride flags do fly. But
the flag does signal a willingness to stand up for what is right, to create community
spaces and opportunities for all, and not to bow to bullies who sow division.
Flying the Pride Flag above City Hall is a small way to work together.
City Commissioners, as elected officials chosen to lead this community, you are in a
position to take action, big or small, and set an example for how we as a community
can work together. I urge the City of Bozeman to adopt the Pride flag as a symbol
and make its stance on equality for all clear and unwavering.
Thank you for taking the time to consider this small but meaningful issue.
Sincerely,
Maris Fessenden