HomeMy WebLinkAbout07-14-25 Public Comment - P. Koester - Appeal to the city commission regarding the pride flagFrom:pkgunsmithing@yahoo.com
To:Bozeman Public Comment
Cc:"Paul Koester"; jdclarkpodiatry@gmail.com
Subject:[EXTERNAL]Appeal to the city commission regarding the pride flag
Date:Sunday, July 13, 2025 9:51:56 PM
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At federal, state, and local government buildings, flags signify the presence and
authority of government institutions and their commitment to serving the people.
Raising flags over government buildings is a multifaceted act that communicates
messages about national identity, values, and governance. Decisions about which flags
to display and how they are handled carry significant implications for both domestic and
international audiences, underscoring the importance of careful consideration and
adherence to established protocols.
Displaying flags representing specific groups or causes, like the POW/MIA flag or, in
some cases, the Pride flag, can symbolize support or recognition for those communities.
While the government isn't obliged to fly all requested flags, a 2022 Supreme Court
decision noted that once a government opens its flagpole for public use, it may need to
remain "content neutral" and avoid rejecting requests based solely on First Amendment
protected expression.
I’ve witnessed first-hand the consequences of “special interest” flags being flown over
occupied territory – ISIS, Taliban, and Al Qaida. The end result was always the same.
Displaying a flag that’s primary purpose is to highlight one’s “life choices” does not serve
the city of Bozeman or its residents.
v/r,
Paul Koester--