Blue cities adopt Pride flags as official symbols in bid to skirt red-state laws

Two cities in the Rockies, under Democratic leadership, are bypassing state laws regulating the display of flags on government property, with a focus on the LGBTQ Pride flag, as reported by The Associated Press. Both Utah and Idaho have laws preventing government buildings from flying most flags, apart from a few exceptions like the American flag and military flags. Utah’s law became effective on Wednesday. To work around the upcoming restrictions, Salt Lake City introduced four flags on Tuesday, including its current flag and modified versions of the Progress Pride, Transgender Pride, and Juneteenth flags, each featuring the city’s sego lily emblem. Mayor Erin Mendenhall presented these flags for adoption through an ordinance, as clarified by her spokesperson, Andrew Wittenberg, to Fox News Digital.

Mendenhall stressed that her adoption of the new flags was not intended to instigate conflict or division, but to represent the values of the city and honor its diverse residents. Violators of the Utah law, permitted to pass without the signature of Republican Gov. Spencer Cox, could face a daily fine of $500. Supporters of the law argue that it is essential for institutions to remain politically neutral. Republican House Speaker Mike Schultz stated, “This law is about keeping government spaces neutral and welcoming to all. Salt Lake City should focus on real issues, not political theatrics.”

Meanwhile, in Boise, Idaho, Mayor Lauren McLean declared the pride flag as an official city flag through a proclamation issued last week. McLean has expressed doubts about the enforceability of the Idaho law restricting flag displays at government buildings and has even flown the pride flag over City Hall after its enactment. McLean has not yet responded to Fox News Digital’s request for comment. McLean and Mendenhall held discussions about their cities’ plans, although Wittenberg clarified that there was no prior coordination between the officials of the two cities.

The information in this report was contributed by The Associated Press.