Trump Administration Removes Pride Flags from Stonewall National Monument

The National Park Service has removed rainbow pride flags from the Stonewall National Monument in New York City, marking a significant shift in how the historic LGBTQ+ landmark is displayed under the current administration.

The Stonewall National Monument, established in 2016 as the first national monument dedicated to LGBTQ+ rights, commemorates the 1969 Stonewall uprising that became a catalyst for the modern gay rights movement. The monument includes Christopher Park, located directly across from the Stonewall Inn where the protests began.

According to sources familiar with the decision, the removal follows a new federal policy restricting the display of non-governmental flags at national monuments and federal buildings. The policy, which has been implemented across various federal properties, limits flag displays to the American flag, state flags, and official government banners.

The removal of pride flags from Stonewall has sparked immediate controversy among LGBTQ+ advocacy groups and supporters. The Stonewall Inn itself, now operating as a private business, continues to display pride flags and maintain its role as a symbol of LGBTQ+ resistance and celebration.

This policy change represents a departure from previous administrations' approaches to the monument. During Pride Month and other significant dates in LGBTQ+ history, rainbow flags had become a common sight at the site, symbolizing the ongoing struggle for equality and the monument's significance to the community.

The National Park Service has not issued an official statement regarding the specific reasoning behind the removal at Stonewall, though the agency has previously cited uniformity in federal property displays as justification for similar actions at other locations.

Local LGBTQ+ organizations have expressed disappointment with the decision, noting that the pride flags at Stonewall served as a visible reminder of the site's historical importance to the community. Some have called for congressional action to protect the monument's character and ensure it remains a welcoming space for all visitors.

The Stonewall National Monument attracts thousands of visitors annually, including many who travel specifically to connect with LGBTQ+ history. The site includes a small park with sculptures by George Segal depicting the diverse individuals who participated in the 1969 uprising.

This development comes amid broader discussions about the role of federal properties in representing diverse communities and histories. The removal of pride flags from such a symbolically significant location highlights the ongoing tensions between different approaches to federal symbolism and representation.

As the situation develops, many in the LGBTQ+ community and their allies are watching closely to see whether this policy will extend to other monuments and federal properties that have traditionally displayed pride symbols during appropriate times of the year.