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4d ago

Boise and Salt Lake City Redefine LGBTQ+ Flags as Official City Symbols

The two capitals adopt new flag ordinances to legally maintain LGBTQ+ visibility under state laws restricting unsanctioned flags on government property.

Image
Jun 22, 2024; Sandy, Utah, USA; General view of a pride flag on the field before the first half between the LA Galaxy and Real Salt Lake at America First Field.
FILE - People march following a Pride rally at the Utah State Capitol, June 2, 2023, in Salt Lake City. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer, File)
FILE - Lauren McLean, Mayor, City of Boise listens during a news conference at the Linen Building in Boise, Idaho, June 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Kyle Green, file)

Overview

  • Boise City Council officially designated the Pride flag as a city emblem, circumventing Idaho's H.B. 96, which restricts unsanctioned flags but lacks enforcement penalties.
  • Salt Lake City Council adopted three new flags, including Pride, transgender visibility, and Juneteenth designs, incorporating the city’s sego lily emblem to comply with Utah's H.B. 77.
  • Utah's law, effective May 7, imposes $500 daily fines for unauthorized flags but exempts official city flags, enabling Salt Lake City to continue displaying LGBTQ+ symbols legally.
  • State leaders in Idaho and Utah criticized the cities’ actions, with Idaho’s attorney general signaling potential efforts to strengthen enforcement in future legislative sessions.
  • Both cities framed their moves as affirmations of inclusion and local values, with Democratic leaders emphasizing the importance of visibility for marginalized communities.