TL;DR
- Boston University removes Pride flags from campus.
- Professor argues this impacts LGBTQ+ student safety.
- Pride flags symbolize support and visibility.
- University claims removal is ‘content-neutral’.
- Call for genuine allyship and support for LGBTQ+ community.
In a shocking twist that has left many scratching their heads, Boston University has decided to remove Pride flags from its campus, claiming it’s all part of a “content-neutral” signage policy. But let’s be real—this is anything but neutral. At a recent town hall, BU President Melissa Gilliam insisted that the university unequivocally supports its LGBTQIA+ community, yet the removal of these flags sends a completely different message. It’s a painful reminder that acknowledging LGBTQIA+ existence is still controversial in some circles.
Let’s face it: in an age where corporate rainbow-washing is rampant, the Pride flag has become a symbol of both celebration and commodification. But for many, it remains a vital emblem of identity and belonging. As a queer woman and a faculty member at BU, I can attest to the importance of these flags. They’re not just fabric; they’re a lifeline for students who may not feel safe or accepted elsewhere. When I first saw those flags at Wellesley College, they were a beacon of hope, signaling that I was entering a space where I could be my true self.
It’s ironic that while BU claims to support its LGBTQIA+ students, its actions suggest otherwise. The removal of Pride flags is not just an aesthetic choice; it’s a direct attack on visibility and acceptance. It sends a message that being openly queer is something to be hidden away, something to be ashamed of. And that’s not just a problem for students; it’s a problem for the entire educational environment.
As a faculty member, I’ve grappled with how to present my identity in the classroom. Initially, I worried that revealing my queerness might alienate some students. But then I realized that being an openly queer educator is not just beneficial for me; it’s crucial for my students. It creates a safe space where they can express themselves without fear of judgment. It’s about fostering an environment where everyone can be honest about their identities, and that’s something BU should be striving for.
Every semester, I ask my students to share personal facts about themselves as a way to build community. I proudly share my own facts, including my love for knitting and boxing, and yes, a photo of my partner and me on our wedding day. My office is adorned with Pride stickers and other symbols of support. Yet, I wonder how far BU’s support really goes. If I were to hang a Pride flag in my office, would it be met with the same resistance that faculty members have faced when displaying them in public windows?
It’s time for BU to put its money where its mouth is. If the university truly wants to support its LGBTQIA+ community, it needs to take concrete actions beyond mere words. Removing Pride flags is not a neutral act; it’s a statement that needs to be challenged. We need to advocate for real change, not just performative allyship. The Pride flag should be a symbol of safety and acceptance, not a point of contention.
In the meantime, many of us will continue to show up for our students in ways that affirm their identities. Whether or not there’s a flag waving outside, we will ensure that LGBTQIA+ students feel seen and valued. Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about a flag; it’s about creating a culture of acceptance and love that transcends any policy. And that’s a fight worth having.
Heather Barrett, Ph.D., is a senior lecturer in the College of Arts & Sciences Writing Program at Boston University, where she teaches first-year writing and research seminars.