Florida LGBTQ advocates are sounding the alarm as state lawmakers revive efforts to restrict the display of Pride flags on government property. The proposal marks the fourth attempt in as many years, but supporters of equality say this version goes even further.
Over the summer, Gov. Ron DeSantis ordered the removal of rainbow crosswalks and street murals across the state — actions Equality Florida calls “blatant government overreach meant to erase symbols of our history, our resilience, and our visibility.”
Now, the new bill would bar state and local buildings from displaying any flag representing race, gender, or sexual orientation, effectively banning the Pride flag. At the same time, it allows flags of historical significance, a category that advocates note includes Confederate flags. The legislation also seeks to limit the ability of cities and counties to design their own flags. Jon Harris Maurer, Public Policy Director for Equality Florida, emphasized the importance of Pride symbols as markers of safety and community. He noted that last year, a wave of public opposition helped defeat similar bills. Equality Florida is urging residents to contact lawmakers ahead of the legislative session beginning in January.
