Letter to Mike Pompeo, Secretary of State - Rep. Meng: Mr. Secretary, let the Pride Flag Fly Proudly at All U.S. Embassies!

Letter

Dear Secretary Pompeo:

We are highly concerned by the Department's rejection of requests by U.S. Embassies to fly rainbow flags in honor of LGBT Pride Month. This policy denies U.S. missions the opportunity to show support for the LGBT community -- both in country and within the walls of our embassies. We strongly urge the State Department to reverse its position and immediately allow for these flags to be flown.

In too many countries around the world, LGBT individuals are systematically discriminated against, and receive no protection from law enforcement. To bar this flag from U.S. Embassies is to condone the discriminatory policies of many countries around the world. In 2018, all requests for permission to display rainbow pride flags were granted. In 2019, all requests for permission have been denied. This sharp pivot in the implementation of this policy is concerning and contradicts the diplomatic corps' work to support LGBT rights overseas.

Thank you for your attention to this matter, and we look forward to your prompt response.

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