- United States
- Utah
- Letter
An Open Letter
To: Rep. Shepherd
From: A constituent in Orem, UT
February 10
I am writing as a constituent to express my strong opposition to HB 77, which will ban the display of pride flags in Utah’s public schools. This bill not only targets a symbol of inclusion and support for LGBTQ+ students but also sends a harmful message that their identities are unwelcome in our educational spaces.
Schools should be environments where all students feel safe, seen, and valued. Pride flags are not political statements. They are symbols of acceptance, belonging, and hope for students who may feel isolated or vulnerable. Removing them risks increasing feelings of marginalization, particularly among LGBTQ+ youth who already face higher rates of bullying, mental health challenges, and suicide.
Our state should be fostering communities of respect, diversity, and understanding. Rather than focusing on restricting expressions of inclusion, I urge you to support policies that affirm the dignity of every student, regardless of their background or identity.
Please vote NO on HB 77. Our students deserve better.