SALT LAKE CITY — In a bold response to a recently enacted law banning “non-official” flags, Mayor Erin Mendenhall introduced a new set of city flags that she asserts comply with the legislation. During a Salt Lake City Council meeting on Tuesday, Mendenhall presented variations of flags that include the LGBTQ+ Pride flag, the Juneteenth flag, the transgender pride flag, and the official Salt Lake City flag. These designs incorporate the city’s logo—featuring a Sego Lily—allowing them to technically adhere to the new regulations.
The law, passed by the state legislature earlier this year, restricts the display of non-sanctioned flags in classrooms and government properties. This legislation prompted Salt Lake City to previously fly the LGBTQ+ Pride flag as a form of protest. In addressing the council, Mendenhall emphasized her intention to foster representation of the city’s values without inciting division, referencing Governor Spencer Cox’s emphasis on civil disagreement in public discourse.
During the meeting, Mendenhall proposed an ordinance that would officially adopt the new flags. The council later supported the initiative with a majority of members identifying as part of the LGBTQ+ community, suggesting a strong backing for the ordinance. Council Chair Chris Wharton noted the significance of civic symbols such as the Pride flag, articulating that they embody shared values of belonging and inclusion regardless of background or orientation.
State Senator Dan McCay, representing Riverton, expressed discontent with the new flags via social media, linking the discussion to the cultural influence of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Additionally, State Representative Trevor Lee, who sponsored the law, has yet to comment but indicated anticipation for future legislative sessions.
House Speaker Mike Schultz condemned Salt Lake City’s actions, labeling them a waste of resources and asserting that the law aims to maintain neutrality in government spaces. He urged the city to prioritize pressing issues over what he described as “political theatrics.”
Meanwhile, Project Rainbow, an organization promoting LGBTQ+ representation in Utah, commended Salt Lake City for its stance. Executive Director Jacey Thornton highlighted the importance of action in advocacy, expressing gratitude for the city’s effort to support the LGBTQ+ community amid growing concerns that the new law may restrict the display of pride flags on private properties.
The ongoing dialogue in Utah reflects a broader nationwide conversation about representation and inclusion in public spaces, showcasing how local authorities are navigating complex social issues while trying to adhere to state mandates.
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