HomeMy WebLinkAbout07-14-25 Public Comment - E. Hester - pride flagFrom:emiliehester@gmail.com
To:Bozeman Public Comment
Subject:[EXTERNAL]pride flag
Date:Friday, July 11, 2025 9:16:30 PM
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Dear Bozeman City Commission,
I’m writing as a resident of Bozeman to voice my strong support for continuing to fly the
Pride flag.
For years, Bozeman has shown its commitment to being a welcoming, inclusive community,one where diversity is celebrated and everyone has the right to feel seen and valued. The Pride
flag is more than a symbol; it is a visible commitment to our neighbors of all backgrounds thatthey are not only welcome here, but that they belong.
Missoula recently took a bold and affirming step by adopting the Pride flag as its city flag. In
doing so, they sent a clear message of solidarity. Bozeman has the opportunity to do the same,to lead with compassion, courage, and clarity about the kind of city we want to be.
At a time when queer Montanans are facing increasing hostility at the state level, local support
and visibility matter more than ever. Keeping the Pride flag flying is a simple, powerful actthat says Bozeman stands on the side of dignity, safety, and equality for all.
If you’ve never had to walk or drive through a town and genuinely fear for your safety, it may
be hard to understand just how significant the sight of a Pride flag can be, not only to the queercommunity, but to anyone who has ever felt “othered” or unwelcome. It matters. It makes a
real difference.
Thank you for your time and for your continued leadership.
Emilie
“Where, after all, do universal human rights begin? In small places, close to home... Unlessthese rights have meaning there, they have little meaning anywhere.”
– Eleanor Roosevelt