In May 2023, Skyridge High School students staged a peaceful walkout protesting Alpine School District’s new classroom pride flag restrictions. A handful of counter-protesters emerged, wielding American and MAGA flags, responding with anti-LGBTQ epithets. This clash of symbols, unfortunately, reflects the broader culture wars playing out in schools nationwide.
For context, the rainbow flag emerged prominently in Utah schools as a symbol of hope during a public-health crisis. In 2017, the CDC reported that Utah’s teen suicide rate spiked 141%, well above the national average. Teachers knew from national data that LGBTQ youth were particularly vulnerable. We also know from vast data the greatest protective factor against teen suicide is fostering a deep sense of connection and family acceptance. Compassionate teachers responded to the crisis by displaying pride flags in classrooms, sending a crucial message to a struggling student: You belong. These educators understood that small gestures of inclusion could make a profound difference in students’ lives.
We love Utah teachers and deeply appreciate their efforts to create welcoming classrooms. We also recognize that sometimes, even with the best of intentions, youth can actually be overprotected in ways that stymie psychological and emotional growth. As social psychologist Jonathan Haidt notes, an excessive focus on “safe spaces” might actually hamper students’ ability to confront life challenges. He reminds us of the axiom, “We must prepare the child for the road, not the road for the child.”
LGBTQ students should feel safe everywhere in schools, not just in rooms with rainbow flags. Every classroom, hallway and locker room should be safe for all students to learn, grow and express themselves.
Now, as Utah’s Legislature prepares to debate HB77 — legislation that would restrict the display of pride flags, among others — lawmakers may remember the old saying, “That which you resist, persists.” Often, such restrictions backfire, inspiring bolder, defiant displays of youth identity.
Instead of perpetuating culture wars through flag bans, there is another way. Though we have recently clashed on issues around transgender youth, Utah lawmakers have demonstrated remarkable leadership around LGBTQ youth on several occasions. In 2017, they repealed a “Don’t Say Gay” school curriculum law which prohibited discussion of LGBTQ families. In 2023, they voted unanimously to protect minors from conversion therapy. And, just last year, they voted to increase funding for LGBTQ youth mental health programs — achievements unmatched in other conservative states.
At Equality Utah, we remain committed to working with lawmakers to build on this progress. We seek common sense solutions that enable teachers to be authentic mentors who inspire critical thinking and encourage resilience. They absolutely should not fear state retaliation or parent-initiated litigation for encouraging a culture of inclusion in the classroom. The wellbeing of our students and educators is best assured by a future where our schools are no longer the battlefield upon which political wars are waged. Laws that invite frequent litigation do not lead towards that better future.
Utah always crafts better policy when we bring people to the table and talk. Our side should recognize that, while flags can be meaningful, the true measure of a welcoming classroom isn’t found in the symbols displayed, but in the daily policies and practices that ensure all students can receive an education free from discrimination.
Lawmakers also should remember that public trust is built when they prioritize substantive policy over reactionary legislation. It’s possible that students might temper their enthusiasm about pride flags if they didn’t feel constantly besieged by legislation perceived to restrict their rights and liberty.
LGBTQ Americans ultimately pledge our allegiance to the Stars and Stripes. Even though historically we have not always enjoyed equal protection under state and federal law, we recognize that under the American flag we have the unprecedented freedom to challenge injustice, fight for our civil liberties and achieve landmark victories, like the freedom to marry.
We encourage young advocates, as you prepare to exercise your right to march, protest and rally, always bring the American flag with you. It’s our flag too. Hoist it high.
During our recent visit to Skyridge High School, their entrance boldly proclaimed “You Belong” — a message that transcends any flag debate. Legislators can make their greatest impact by reinforcing this truth through both word and action: Every young Utahn, including LGBTQ youth, unequivocally belongs in our schools, our state and our country. Again, we are all Utahns and we are all Americans.
(Equality Utah) Troy Williams is the executive director of Equality Utah.
Troy Williams is the executive director of Equality Utah.
(Equality Utah) Marina Lowe is the policy director of Equality Utah.
Marina Lowe is the policy director of Equality Utah.
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