Wisconsin’s Capitol in Madison witnessed a powerful display of solidarity and support for the LGBTQ+ community as Democratic Governor Tony Evers ordered the raising of the gay pride flag. In a noon ceremony that drew dozens of spectators, the vibrant flag ascended high above the Capitol, where it will fly throughout the month of June, coinciding with Pride month. This symbolic act serves as a response to the escalating attacks on the LGBTQ+ community by conservatives across the nation.
Governor Evers addressed the crowd, expressing his enthusiasm for the occasion and acknowledging the adversity faced by the LGBTQ+ community. He denounced the hateful rhetoric that has emboldened discrimination, emphasizing that the flag’s presence sends a resounding message of acceptance and belonging. Applauding the diverse identities within the LGBTQ+ community, he vowed to stand with LGBTQ+ Wisconsinites, including transgender and gender non-conforming individuals, and pledged to utilize every tool at his disposal to protect their rights.
Evers has made it a tradition to raise a pride flag over the Capitol every June since assuming office in 2019. Last year, he opted for the progress pride flag, which includes additional stripes and a chevron pattern representing LGBTQ+ individuals of color, transgender individuals, and those affected by HIV or AIDS. This year, he decided to raise the progress flag once again, a choice that has been met with both support and controversy.
While Wisconsin remains a battleground state with Republicans controlling the Legislature and a Democrat occupying the governor’s office, Evers’ decision has drawn sharp criticism from conservatives. In 2019, GOP lawmakers deemed it divisive and accused Evers of pushing a political agenda. This year, the order to raise the flag is further entangled with the ongoing efforts by Republicans across the country to curtail the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals. With nearly 500 anti-LGBTQ+ bills introduced in state legislatures this year and numerous states enacting laws restricting gender-affirming care for transgender minors, the flag’s ascent carries added significance.
Beyond the political landscape, anger towards the LGBTQ+ community has also infiltrated the corporate sphere. Target recently faced backlash after removing products and relocating pride displays in some Southern stores due to concerns about their impact on children. Bud Light encountered controversy following a partnership with transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney, which sparked a wave of criticism and hate from conservative figures. The challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community persist, but voices of support, including U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin, provide a resolute call for unity and acceptance during gay pride month and beyond.
As Wisconsin’s Capitol proudly flies the LGBTQ+ pride flag, it stands as a powerful symbol in the ongoing struggle for equality and recognition. Governor Evers’ unwavering support and defiance against conservative opposition serve as a reminder that the fight for inclusivity continues, and love and respect for all remain steadfast American values.