HomeMy WebLinkAbout07-08-25 Public Comment - B. Warner - Please fly the pride flag in BozemanFrom:Brett Warner
To:Bozeman Public Comment
Cc:hello@queerbozeman.com
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Please fly the pride flag in Bozeman
Date:Tuesday, July 8, 2025 10:55:07 AM
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Dear Bozeman City Commission,
I’m writing to express my deep disappointment in your decision to remove the Pride flag
discussion from tonight’s agenda. By doing so, you’ve chosen, whether intentionally or not, toyield to those who seek to intimidate and silence. Once again, the louder voices of fear and
division are being given the floor, while those who live every day under the weight ofmarginalization are asked to wait their turn. I urge you, sincerely and directly: do not fall in
line with those who will inevitably find themselves on the wrong side of history.
This issue is personal to me.
When I interviewed for a job in Bozeman a few years ago, what struck me most was not justthe stunning mountain views or the vibrant downtown, it was the Pride stickers displayed
proudly on storefronts, the sense that this place was trying to be inclusive, safe, and forward-thinking. After a work relocation to Houston, I found Bozeman refreshingly progressive, and
for the first time in years, I felt like I’d found a home. But over time, I’ve watched our localleadership fold under pressure, kowtowing to threats and backlash from increasingly vocal and
regressive groups, while the LGBTQ+ community here continues to stand tall, often withoutsupport. It’s heartbreaking to witness a city with so much potential be bullied into silence.
I’ve seen the real-world impact of this. I’ve lost two LGBTQ employees—smart, capable,Montana State graduates—who left Bozeman not because of job dissatisfaction, but because
they no longer felt safe. They walked away from well-paying, white-collar roles because ourcommunity, and our local government, refused to stand up for them when it mattered most.
Let me be clear: flying the Pride flag is not a token gesture. It is a powerful symbol that says,“We see you. You matter. You are safe here.” It represents dignity, diversity, and the promise
of a more inclusive future. Removing this symbol, or refusing to fight for its visibility, sendsthe opposite message—that fear and hate are allowed to set the terms of our public life.
Missoula has taken steps to do what’s right. Bozeman can—and should—do the same. Pleasedon’t let the bullies define who we are. Fly the Pride flag. Stand with those who need you
most. And show us that our leaders still have the courage to lead.
Sincerely,
Brett Warner