Utah becomes the first state to ban Pride and other flags on public schools and government buildings

Utah has enacted a law banning the display of non-approved flags, including Pride flags, in public schools and government buildings. Governor Spencer Cox's decision not to sign a bill prohibiting all non-approved flags caused significant backlash, with critics warning it would harm the state's LGBTQ community. In response to the controversy, Cox expressed concerns over the bill's effectiveness, suggesting it could foster further division. The Sundance Film Festival's subsequent move to Colorado underscores the cultural impact of this legislation, signifying potential economic and social repercussions for Utah.

"By simply requiring the removal of flags only, there is little preventing countless other displays - posters, signs, drawings, furniture - from entering the classroom. Furthermore, the bill is overly prescriptive on flags themselves," Cox wrote, warning, "To those legislators who supported this bill, I'm sure it will not fix what you are trying to fix."

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