In a historic move, the city of Hamtramck in Michigan, renowned as the only city in the United States with an all-Muslim city council and mayor, made a unanimous decision on Tuesday evening to prohibit the display of LGBTQ Pride flags on city-owned properties.
Councilman Mohammed Hassan, serving as the Mayor Pro Tem, took the initiative to introduce the resolution in Hamtramck, a vibrant city of approximately 28,000 residents situated near Detroit. The resolution put forth the stance that “no religious, ethnic, racial, political, or sexual orientation group flags shall be flown on the City’s public properties,” with only the American flag and flags representing the international character of the city being permitted.
Addressing opponents of the resolution at a council meeting, Hassan conveyed his perspective, asserting, “You guys are the ones creating issues.” He implored them not to threaten the council, emphasizing his role as an elected official striving to fulfill the desires of the majority.
Mayor Amer Ghalib echoed this sentiment, stating, “We treat everyone equally without discrimination, but without favoritism.” He highlighted that a significant proportion of the members on various boards and commissions within the city identify as LGBTQ or as allies of the community, emphasizing that no LGBTQ individuals have faced dismissal during his tenure.
Ghalib, who was elected in 2021, previously criticized former Mayor Karen Majewski for displaying the Pride flag outside municipal hall. The issue of including the LGBTQ community as a protected category in city legislation has faced opposition from conservative Christians and the local Muslim community since 2008.
Councilman Nayeem Choudhury supported the decision, emphasizing the importance of respecting religious rights while questioning the necessity of flying the Pride flag over public buildings. He expressed the sentiment, “You are already welcome. … But why is it necessary to have the flag flown over public buildings? You already have a voice. Whoever you are, we acknowledge you. By making this about bigotry, you make it seem like you want us to hate you.”
During the public discussion session on the resolution, a woman humorously suggested changing Hamtramck’s slogan to “welcomes you if you’re straight” before sharing a public display of affection with another woman.
Hassan Aoun, a prominent member of the Muslim community in Dearborn, Michigan, voiced his opinion, stating, “Pride month, don’t force it upon us. It is acceptable to be gay. However, the Pride flag should not be displayed on city property.”
The controversy surrounding the Pride flag in Hamtramck was ignited when Russ Gordon, the chair of Hamtramck’s Human Relations Commission, hung a Pride flag on Jos Campau Avenue last year. In light of the new resolution, it remains unclear whether Gordon intends to proceed with his plan to display the flag again.