Why are Pride flags being banned? And why does it matter?
In this Egale Explains resource, we’ll go over how Pride flags are getting banned, why it’s important to continue advocating for Pride flags being flown. You’ll also find tips on how to bring it up with your communities when you’re advocating for your local Pride flag.
Common Reasons for Banning Pride Flags
“Neutrality”
Some cities and school boards often argue that taking down Pride flags helps to stay “neutral” (for example, in Westlock, Alberta). They claim that, by removing symbols that could be seen as showing preference for a particular group or idea, they can instead create universal inclusivity without associating with specific social or political movements. However, this reasoning is flawed:
- Pride flags were initially raised to support 2SLGBTQI communities because they have been historically marginalized. Inclusivity is an action that takes a stance against the everyday norms. Removing the flag does not equal universal inclusivity. In the absence of flags, it is more unclear whether or not the environment has moved beyond the history of oppression.
- The Pride flag doesn’t exclude anyone. Creating a more inclusive environment benefits everyone.
Community Pressure
Community complaints often play a significant role in decisions to remove Pride flags, and complaints often are heard more than praises. Some members of the public may view these symbols as inappropriate for government buildings, schools, or other taxpayer-funded spaces, particularly if they believe such displays challenge their personal, cultural, or religious values (for example, Niagara Catholic District School Board). This pressure can influence municipalities to avoid controversy by taking a “middle-ground” approach, which may involve removing all non-official flags. Again, this “middle-ground” does not exist when both history and the current reality contains 2SLGBTQI discrimination and exclusion.
Misinterpretation
Some people oppose the Pride flag because they mistakenly frame it as a symbol of one side of the political spectrum and not the other. This left-versus right framing ignores the reality that 2SLGBTQI people exist across all political backgrounds. The Pride flag isn’t about promoting a specific political party or agenda – it’s about recognizing and affirming the rights, dignity, and visibility of people who have historically been marginalized.
Why Pride Flags Matter
Visibility and Representation
The visual symbol can be affirming to people in public spaces where they may otherwise feel invisible or marginalized. The flag can also signal that the space may be a safer space that is inclusive and supportive. The overall display and visibility of the flag reinforces that 2SLGBTQI people are valued members of society that is deliberately speaking against the historical and contemporary oppression of 2SLGBTQI people.
See here for more information about the creation of the Pride flag.
Catalyst for Conversation and Awareness
Flying the flag provides opportunities to have conversations of 2SLGBTQI inclusion, and therefore more opportunities for education, awareness, and ultimately more empathy and inclusivity.
Solidarity and Allyship
Organizations, business, and political spaces can fly the flag in a show of solidarity with 2SLGBTQI communities.
What Can You Do?
Emphasize that Inclusivity is a Universal Human Value
Regardless of someone’s identity, social background, or political affiliation, inclusivity is ultimately about creating a society that is safer for everyone to participate in. The purpose of displaying a Pride flag is not to exclude anyone. In fact, allowing a historically marginalized group to have some visibility and equitable rights, does not take away anyone else’s visibility and rights.
See Example Response
“The display of Pride flags doesn’t take away anything from anyone. In fact, it gives everyone more freedom and space to express themselves however they want, including straight and cisgender people!”
Highlight the Misuse of “Neutrality”
When both history and the current society have actively discriminated against 2SLGBTQI communities, silence is not neutral.
Silence and absence allow for the dominant ideas that are responsible for discrimination to become louder.
See Example Responses
“History is not “neutral” about 2SLGBTQI inclusion.”
“You cannot be neutral when not everyone has the same right
to exist.”
“Silence and erasure are not neutral.”
Centre Lived Experiences
When both history and the current society have actively discriminated against 2SLGBTQI communities, silence is not neutral.
Silence and absence allow for the dominant ideas that are responsible for discrimination to become louder.
See Example Responses
“For 2SLGBTQI youth, seeing the Pride flag can mean the difference between feeling safe or feeling isolated.”
“For many, the Pride flag represents more than just a symbol –it’s a beacon of hope, safety, and acceptance.”
For a more in-depth guide on how to advocate for the prevention or removal of anti-Pride flag bylaws and policies, refer to our Fly the Flag Advocacy Guide (resource coming soon).
This resource is part of Egale Canada’s work to combat anti-2SLGBTQI hate. Use Egale’s Rainbow Action Hub to find more resources and tools to combat the rise of anti-2SLGBTQI hate.