HomeMy WebLinkAbout07-14-25 Public Comment - B. Helsby - Fwd_ Pride FlagFrom:DB Helsby
To:Bozeman Public Comment
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Fwd: Pride Flag
Date:Monday, July 14, 2025 10:35:47 AM
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Dear City Commissioners,
I am writing to strongly urge you to refrain from using our city flag to make political or
ideological statements. Choosing to replace or modify the flag to include a pride symbol sets atroubling precedent, as it opens the door for countless other groups to demand representation
of their own causes or identities on the city flag as well. This would inevitably politicize whatshould remain a neutral and unifying symbol of our community.
Our city flag should represent all residents equally without singling out particular groups. Itshould remain a banner that unites us, rather than dividing us by highlighting certain interests
or identities over others. Inclusion and kindness are demonstrated through how we treat oneanother daily, not by altering civic symbols to make a point.
Flying a pride flag in place of, or alongside, our city flag appears performative—an attemptto prove inclusivity rather than live it out genuinely through policies and actions. Would it not
be better to simply foster an atmosphere of respect and dignity for everyone withoutpoliticizing our shared symbols?
I respectfully request that you leave the city flag as it is—a symbol for everyone in ourcommunity—and focus instead on encouraging inclusion through your leadership and
example.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,Becky Helsby