Press Release: Historical Society’s Decision Sparks Controversy as Pride Flag is Grounded
In a surprising move during Pride Month, the Wisconsin Historical Society (WHS) announced it will not display a Pride flag outside its headquarters for the first time since 2019, igniting backlash from employees and community members. WHS leadership justified this decision by claiming a desire to remain "nonpartisan" and neutral, despite the deep political ramifications embedded in their choice.
The announcement comes as WHS and the University of Wisconsin-Madison face increasing pressure from political appointees and a Republican-controlled legislature. Employees have voiced concerns that this stance prioritizes institutional funding over inclusivity, undermining the very essence of historical narratives that WHS is tasked to convey.
Critics argue that avoiding the display of the Pride flag represents a retreat in the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ rights, particularly at a time when such communities face renewed attacks. Many feel that the leadership’s decision fails to acknowledge the integral role LGBTQ+ individuals play in Wisconsin’s history. As noted by a WHS staff member, not flying the flag is, in essence, a political statement itself.
Further complicating matters, WHS has highlighted its nonpartisan stance, claiming that displaying any flags could be perceived as advocacy, a position many find troubling. This framing not only dismisses the historical significance of the Pride flag but also contributes to a narrative that equates political values with partisanship, inherently limiting discourse.
As the debate unfolds, advocates are calling on historical institutions to embrace their political contexts, emphasizing that the role of a public institution is to foster inclusivity, especially for historically marginalized groups. The silence from WHS is seen as a missed opportunity to champion equality during a critical moment.
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