HomeMy WebLinkAbout07-14-25 Public Comment - J. Scott - Opposition to Designating the Pride Flag as an Official City FlagFrom:Jesse Scott
To:Bozeman Public Comment
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Opposition to Designating the Pride Flag as an Official City Flag
Date:Monday, July 14, 2025 10:52:30 AM
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Dear Bozeman City Commission,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to any proposal that would designate the pride flag
as an official city flag for Bozeman. As a conservative resident who values our community’s
shared heritage and unity, I believe this decision would be divisive, unnecessary, and contrary to
the principles that make our city a welcoming place for all.
First and foremost, a city flag should represent the entirety of Bozeman’s population, reflecting our
collective identity, history, and values. The current city flag, with its design rooted in our local
culture and natural beauty, serves this purpose effectively. It unites us under a common symbol
that transcends individual beliefs or affiliations. Designating the pride flag as an official city flag
risks alienating a significant portion of our community, as it is inherently tied to a specific social
movement and set of values that not all residents share. While I respect the right of individuals to
express their personal beliefs, elevating a flag associated with a particular ideology to official
status sends a message that the city endorses one perspective over others, undermining the
inclusivity we strive for.
Furthermore, the role of government is to remain neutral on matters of personal or ideological
significance. By adopting the pride flag as an official symbol, the city risks entangling itself in
cultural debates that are better left to individuals and private organizations. Bozeman’s
government should focus on practical issues—such as infrastructure, public safety, and economic
growth—rather than engaging in symbolic gestures that could deepen divisions. Our community
thrives when we prioritize shared goals over polarizing displays, and I fear this decision would
invite unnecessary conflict and erode trust in our local institutions.
From a conservative perspective, I also believe this proposal disregards the importance of
tradition and continuity. Bozeman’s existing flag has served as a unifying emblem for years,
representing our city’s unique character and resilience. Replacing or supplementing it with a flag
tied to a contemporary social movement risks diluting the timeless qualities that make Bozeman
special. Moreover, the pride flag’s association with specific political and cultural causes could
exclude those who hold differing views, including many who support equality but question theappropriateness of elevating one group’s symbol above others.
I am also concerned about the precedent this decision could set. If the pride flag is designated asan official city flag, what is to stop other groups from demanding their own flags be similarly
recognized? This could lead to a proliferation of competing symbols, each representing a different
cause or identity, further fragmenting our community’s shared identity. A single, neutral city flag
avoids this slippery slope and ensures that all residents feel equally represented.
I acknowledge that supporters of this proposal may argue it promotes inclusivity and celebrates
diversity. However, true inclusivity does not come from elevating one group’s symbol aboveothers; it comes from fostering a community where all voices are heard and respected under a
common banner. Bozeman is already a welcoming place, and we can continue to demonstrate
this through actions—such as supporting local businesses, hosting community events, and
ensuring fair treatment for all—without resorting to symbolic gestures that risk division.
In conclusion, I urge the Bozeman City Commission to reject any proposal to designate the pride
flag as an official city flag. Let us maintain our current flag as a symbol of unity, neutrality, and
shared pride in our city’s heritage. By focusing on governance that serves all residents equally, we
can preserve Bozeman’s strength as a community where everyone belongs. Thank you for
considering my perspective, and I trust you will make a decision that reflects the best interests of
our entire city.
Sincerely,
Jesse Scott
Bozeman Resident and Lifelong Montana Resident
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