Evers raises pride flag at Capitol, future of tradition depends on election
MADISON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Governor Tony Evers continued his tradition of raising the pride flag above the Wisconsin state Capitol on Monday, the first day of Pride Month. It’s a tradition he started back in 2019. Gov. Evers had a message of unity, reminding Wisconsinites that the first time the flag flew at the top of the Capitol building was thanks to him. Depending on who is elected in November though, that could change.
Gov. Evers raised a pride flag above the Capitol, underneath the Wisconsin state flag and the American flag, all while highlighting his support for the queer community throughout his time in office.
“Throughout my time as governor, I have used my veto pen to say hell no to any legislation that targets our trans kids and to prevent any bill that harms the health, safety, and security of LGBTQ Wisconsinites from becoming law,” Gov. Evers said.
The governor also signed an executive order banning the use of state and federal funds from being used for conversion therapy, a controversial therapy that alleges to convert people away from their LGBTQ identity. All major mental health organizations have discredited the practice.
“I do consider myself a trans refugee, because it was unlivable,” Leo Munoz, who identifies as transgender, said. “Unfortunately, the climate in Florida, it’s not an exaggeration to say my life was at risk.”
Once Gov. Evers leaves office, will this tradition continue? Most of the Democratic candidates that responded said they would. Here are the statements from those who got back to us:
"Flying the Progress Pride Flag over the Governor's mansion is a proud Wisconsin tradition, one I was honored to be a part of as Lt. Governor and will be proud to continue as Governor. It sends a clear message that the state of Wisconsin stands with every LGBTQ+ Wisconsinite and against anyone who tries to bully our kids and communities."- Former Lt. Governor Mandela Barnes
“Fran will absolutely continue the tradition of raising the Pride flag and will strongly advocate for the LGBTQ+ community throughout the year.”- Francesca Hong’s campaign manager
Many of the candidates didn’t provide statements but said they would continue the tradition. As for Republican gubernatorial candidate Tom Tiffany, he says he would not. He sent the following statement:
“In addition to the POW/MIA flag, Tom Tiffany will fly two flags over the State Capitol: the Wisconsin state flag and the American flag. State Government should focus on representing the people of Wisconsin as a whole and remain a place of unity rather than division.”
Which is why those in the queer community say raising the flag isn't meant to divide anyone. It's about being seen and represented.
“We are people, we bleed the same,” said Jax Seeger, who identifies as part of the LQBTQ community.
People at the event also continued their call for two Wisconsin hospital systems to resume gender-affirming care for minors, something neither UW Health nor Children’s Wisconsin have yet to do.