4/5/2025

One thing you can do today: Learn about new flag policies in other states and understand the effects it could have.

Source: AP News

What Happened

Utah became the first U.S. state to ban LGBTQ+ Pride flags (and other non-approved flags) from being flown on all government buildings and public schools. The law takes effect on May 7, 2025. Buildings can be fined $500 per day if they violate this rule. Only a few flags—such as the U.S. flag, the Utah state flag, military flags, and other specific flags—are allowed under the new law.

Governor Spencer Cox let the bill become law without signing it, stating he had concerns but expected his veto would be overridden by Utah’s Republican-controlled legislature.

Why It Matters

This law is being viewed by many as a direct attempt to suppress LGBTQ+ visibility in public spaces—especially in schools and government buildings. Supporters say it ensures “political neutrality,” while opponents argue that it targets marginalized communities and limits local cities’ rights to choose how they express inclusivity. The law comes amid a national wave of similar legislative efforts in other states like Idaho and Florida.

Who It Affects

• LGBTQ+ communities in Utah who feel that their visibility and expression are being erased.
• Teachers, school staff, and local government workers who can no longer display symbols of support.
• Cities like Salt Lake City, which may face fines or conflict for defying the law.
• Organizations and events considering whether Utah aligns with their values—for example, the Sundance Film Festival announced its move to Colorado.

Why Your Voice Matters

Laws like this reflect broader trends across the U.S. where communities are being restricted in how they show support for one another. Whether you live in Utah or not, speaking up can shape how similar laws spread or are stopped in your state. Public opinion can also influence whether these laws are challenged or repealed in the future.

Why You Should Care

This isn’t just about a flag - it's about freedom of expression, inclusion, and what kind of message we send to young people, especially those in the LGBTQ+ community. Banning symbols of inclusion may increase feelings of isolation or discrimination. If we allow this to go unchallenged, it could become a precedent for further restrictions elsewhere.

What You Can Do

If You Support the Law (Want to Keep the Ban)

• Contact your local representative to express support for “political neutrality” laws. Use USA.gov’s contact tool to find and reach your House representative or Senator.
• Donate to or support organizations that promote conservative values in education, like The Heritage Foundation.

If You Oppose the Law (Want to Repeal the Ban)

• Contact Utah legislators directly to urge repeal or changes to the law. Use this tool to find your Utah state lawmakers.
• Support or donate to LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations like:
  • Equality Utah – works for LGBTQ+ rights in Utah.
  • ACLU of Utah – may support legal challenges to the law.
  • The Trevor Project – offers mental health support for LGBTQ+ youth.
• Show support publicly: Attend or organize local rallies, hang pride flags on private property, or write letters to local news outlets or social media platforms to raise awareness.
• Vote in local and state elections for representatives who support LGBTQ+ rights. Use Vote.org to check your registration and voting info.

Want to Learn More?

• Equality Utah Newsroom – for ongoing updates about the flag ban and related issues.
• HRC: Understanding LGBTQ+ Equality – to learn more about the broader fight for LGBTQ+ rights.