HomeMy WebLinkAbout07-15-25 Public Comment - B. DeYoung - Vote No on Redefining Bozeman’s City FlagFrom:Bailey DeYoung
To:Bozeman Public Comment
Subject:[EXTERNAL] Vote No on Redefining Bozeman’s City Flag
Date:Monday, July 14, 2025 8:12:24 PM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
Dear Commissioners,
I’m writing to strongly oppose the proposal to declare the Pride flag as an official city flag of
Bozeman.
Let’s be honest about what this is: a political workaround to get around Governor Gianforte’s
recent executive order restricting what flags can be flown on government buildings. Callingthe Pride flag our “official city flag” doesn’t make it any less politically charged—it just
exploits a legal technicality.
This is not what city flags are for
City flags should unify and represent all residents equally. Redefining the flag to represent onegroup—no matter how well-intentioned—turns a unifying symbol into a divisive statement.
That’s not inclusion; that’s political signaling.
You don’t fix overreach by overreaching
I may not agree with the state’s restrictions, but using city authority to push back withsymbolism is not the right move. Turning Bozeman’s flag into a protest tool sets a dangerous
precedent. Where does it stop? Do we change the city flag every time a new group feelsunrecognized by the state?
Most people don’t want this fight
You’ve seen the divided public comments. People are tired of government being used for
symbolic culture wars. This isn’t about LGBTQ+ rights—this is about maintaining neutralityin public institutions. If the Pride flag can be made “official,” then so can any flag tied to a
political or ideological movement. That opens the door to chaos.
Vote for unity, not division
If you vote yes, you’re not just supporting a flag—you’re supporting a tactic. One that usesloopholes to push ideology through official channels. That is not what local government is for.
Please vote no.
Sincerely,
Bailey DeYoung216 Balsam Drive, Bozeman, MT