In a defiant response to Utah’s HB77 bill banning Pride flags from government buildings and schools, protesters gathered at the state Capitol in Salt Lake City last Friday, unfurling a colossal 200-foot rainbow banner on the building’s steps. The bill, passed by the Republican-led legislature, is awaiting Governor Spencer Cox’s signature, which he is unlikely to veto.
Salt Lake City’s Mayor Erin Mendenhall joined the opposition, illuminating the City/County Building in rainbow colors as a statement of solidarity. Meanwhile, LGBTQ+ activists and allies argue that the bill is a direct attack on visibility and support for queer and trans youth. The American Civil Liberties Union of Utah condemned the legislation as an unconstitutional restriction on free expression, warning of its dangerous precedent.
One teacher, J. Ryan Waddoups, refused to comply, stating, “You’ll have to fire me before I take down my Pride flag.” Many others echoed his sentiment, seeing the flag as a symbol of safety and inclusion in a political climate increasingly hostile to LGBTQ+ rights.
While supporters of HB77 claim the bill aims to refocus schools on education by banning ‘non-sanctioned’ flags, critics argue that it will further isolate and endanger queer students, especially in a state where anti-LGBTQ+ policies are becoming alarmingly common.
With the fate of HB77 sealed, Utah’s queer community and allies are making one thing clear: no matter how many flags the government tries to take down, their fight for visibility and equality will only grow louder and more vibrant.
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