The Flag and the Flag

US flag on a flagpole with a progress pride flag beneath it.
(photo: leonotenboom.com)

It was time to replace our well worn U.S. flag, but I was hesitant.

I’d planned on raising the new flag the day after the election, with the assumption that Harris would win. Needless to say that didn’t happen.

The problem is that the far cristofascist right has tainted the flag of the United States. Among other things, it’s frequently and proudly displayed alongside other statements and symbols representing far-right fascist and cristofascist ideology.

Much like the meaning of the word “patriot” has changed, it would be easy to feel that the flag no longer represents the country that so many of us want it to be.

I was torn.

My compromise was this: a new (larger than my previous) United States flag, accompanied by a smaller progress pride flag. They’re pictured above.

Some may find this performative. Others may consider it virtue signalling. Whatever. It’s what lets me feel better about raising a flag once again.

We have friends in the queer community who are scared, some even for their lives. Some are scared their marriage may someday be deemed illegal. Some are just anxious, without knowing exactly why. They all share the realization that some large percentage of American voters don’t believe they should exist.

Hopefully, my small effort will make it clear that there are people who don’t feel that way.

All Are Welcome Here in Elvish
All Are Welcome Here

6 thoughts on “The Flag and the Flag”

  1. I have to admit that I had to look up the progress pride flag to see exactly what it was. You made that easy to do by hyperlinking.

    I say Amen.

    Thank you, I couldn’t agree more.

    Reply
  2. I can always depend on you for reasonable thinking. At this time when I, and I hope many others, are wondering how a convicted criminal could be elected President, I look for those who restore my faith in humanity.

    Reply
  3. There aren’t too many brave people these days. but I count you as brave, as well as kind. Thank you for helping me feel better about the flag.

    Reply
  4. I am proud of what you did for our flag. I hold the flag above all this s**t that is currently going on. I am 87 years old and am afraid I will not be around to see the pendulum swing the other way. It will in due time.

    Reply

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