Defend LGBTQI+ rights, allow State Department Pride flag display

The Proposed Flag Restriction in H.R. 2882 Undermines LGBTQI+ Rights As of March 21 at 1:33 AM, page 1,000 of the defense appropriations bill H.R. 2882 limits the flags that may be purchased and flown over U.S. State Department Facilities to a small list of approved flags, including those of the United States and individual states, the POW/MIA flag, and a few others. This would prevent State Department programs designed to advance the human rights of LGBTQI+ persons around the world from flying a Pride flag. The proposed restriction on flags permitted to be flown at U.S. State Department facilities is concerning from a human rights perspective. Preventing the display of the Pride flag would undermine efforts to promote LGBTQI+ equality and send a negative message about American values. The State Department should be empowered to fly flags that demonstrate solidarity with marginalized communities and reaffirm America's commitment to universal human rights.