Park City to weigh Pride banners amid ongoing debate over HB77 and public flag displays

Photo: TownLift

PARK CITY, Utah — The Park City Council will consider a resolution next week that would proclaim June 2025 as Pride Month — and potentially authorize Pride banners along Main Street, despite new state restrictions on flags displayed on public property.

The proposed resolution, scheduled for discussion at the council’s May 15 meeting, includes language authorizing Pride-themed banners on city-owned light poles and “Ride with Pride” decals on public transit buses for the duration of the month. If approved, the move would place Park City among a growing list of Utah communities seeking creative ways to show support for LGBTQIA+ residents and visitors in the wake of House Bill 77.

HB77, passed earlier this year by the Utah Legislature, limits what kinds of flags can be flown on government-owned properties, prompting cities like Salt Lake to explore workarounds — including the adoption of city flags that incorporate Pride colors and symbols.

A recent Salt Lake Tribune story reported Park City Council member Jeremy Rubell said the council had directed the city attorney’s office to give an interpretation of HB77.

“Let’s just say diversity and inclusion are very important to us,” Rubell said, “and we’re going to do whatever we can within the framework we’re given to show our community that we do support them.”

While Park City’s resolution doesn’t directly challenge the new law, it signals the city’s intention to maintain visible, public support for inclusion. “Pride Month is a reminder that we should never let up in our efforts to ensure full equality, inclusion, and empowerment for our LGBTQ+ community,” the resolution reads.

The measure also highlights Park City’s history of welcoming LGBTQIA+ residents, allies, and visitors, and references the origins of Utah Pride, which began in Salt Lake City in 1974 as a small grassroots gathering.

Consideration of the resolution comes after Summit Pride requested City Council members, consider proclaiming June 2025 as Pride Month in Park City and
supporting Pride Month activations.

The council will take up the resolution at its May 15 meeting.