The Utah state legislature is currently considering
banning pride flags in schools - but allowing Nazi and Confederate flags. It tried something similar two years ago, but failed. Now, it seems, there's a real chance
this dangerous and immoral legislation could actually pass - unless they hear strong opposition from the people.Sign the petition to demand Utah lawmakers reject this hateful bill!The author of this bill, Rep. Trevor Lee, has repeatedly bragged on social media about how he despises the queer community and wants to target freedom of expression for LGBTQ+ people.
Last year, when someone else posted online that Pride Month is "satanic," he wrote back, "Gosh, this is amazing."
Rep. Lee's bill would not only impact public schools in Utah, but also any and all government buildings in the state. The specific wording of the legislation states that only "approved" flags may be either displayed or used for educational purposes as part of school curriculums. The list of approved flags includes Nazi and Confederate flags, as well as flags of other nations and Native American tribes - but specifically excludes Pride flags.
The representative has made it very clear what his intention is with this bill. Online, he has brazenly celebrated his efforts to erase mentions of queer people, and specifically to attack Pride flags.
The people this will hurt most are children. Children need to feel
welcomed, accepted, supported, and safe. But to be in an environment where flags of hate are allowed - but not flags of love - is deeply chilling.
As Millie Dworkin, a high school senior, said to lawmakers: "You all know this is wrong and immoral.
Queer people commit suicide at a higher rate than everybody else." As Dworkin explained: "This is not because they are inherently prone to commit suicide ...
It is because of how they are treated."
Not only would this bill be harmful to children who need to know they are accepted and embraced, but it is also in violation of the First Amendment's freedom of speech rights.
We must urge the Utah state legislature to vote down this bill! Sign the petition!