Trump Directive Orders Removal of Pride Flag from Stonewall Monument

A significant controversy emerged when a large Pride flag was removed from the Stonewall National Monument in Manhattan. This action followed a directive from the Trump administration and marks a second attack on the site, which is pivotal to the L.G.B.T.Q. rights movement. The flag was taken down quietly, without prior notice to staff or the public, leading to outrage and condemnation from local officials and community members.

Flag Removal and Government Directive

The directive prompting the flag’s removal was issued on January 21. The Department of the Interior provided new guidance regarding the display of “non-agency” flags in the National Park System, which includes the Stonewall site. According to the National Park Service, only the U.S. flag and other authorized flags can be flown on Park Service-managed poles, with limited exceptions.

Community Reaction

Staff at the Stonewall Inn discovered the absence of the Pride flag early one Monday morning. Stacy Lentz, co-owner of the bar, expressed her disbelief and concern, stating that the removal felt like a direct affront to their community. She noted the Pride flag is not merely a symbol; it represents the history and rights of L.G.B.T.Q. individuals.

• Stacy Lentz: “The flag tells young L.G.B.T.Q. people that their history will not be sidelined.”
• Chuck Schumer: New York’s Senate minority leader criticized the action, calling it deeply outrageous.
• Brad Hoylman-Sigal: Manhattan borough president shared that the directive was aimed at controlling which flags are displayed.

Broader Policy Changes

The Trump administration’s actions are part of a broader strategy to alter how diversity initiatives are managed at federal sites. This includes removing significant exhibits and displays related to L.G.B.T.Q. history and rights. For example, the National Park Service has previously taken down information on George Washington’s slave ownership and other critical narratives.

Historical Significance of the Stonewall National Monument

Designated as a national monument by President Barack Obama in 2016, the Stonewall site includes the historic Stonewall Inn and surrounding areas. The original Pride flag was created in 1978, with each color representing different aspects of the L.G.B.T.Q. community.

Future Actions and Community Response

In light of the flag’s removal, community leaders are planning to raise the Pride flag again during a demonstration. Brad Hoylman-Sigal emphasized the urgency of reclaiming their history and standing up against these attempts to erase the rights and identities of L.G.B.T.Q. individuals.

The Stonewall Inn remains a focal point of activism and pride for the L.G.B.T.Q. community, reflecting a history rooted deeply in the struggles and triumphs of marginalized voices. As the community rallies against this latest act, they reaffirm their commitment to preserving their history and ensuring their voices are heard.