Federal Judge Upholds Hamtramck’s Pride Flag Ban

News Summary

A federal judge has ruled in favor of Hamtramck’s ban on the display of Pride flags on public property, stating it does not violate constitutional rights. The city’s all-Muslim council justified the decision citing concerns about conflicting beliefs. Although local businesses can still fly Pride flags, the new policy has ignited debate over free speech and inclusivity in the diverse community. Critics argue it undermines Hamtramck’s reputation as an immigrant-friendly city. The ruling and recent commission actions reflect ongoing tensions in the community regarding representation and identity.

Hamtramck, Michigan – A federal judge has upheld the city council’s decision to ban the display of Pride flags on public property, reinforcing a controversial policy that has sparked significant debate among residents and advocates. U.S. District Judge David Lawson dismissed a lawsuit challenging the city’s resolution, stating that the prohibition against displaying the Gay Pride flag does not violate the Constitution.

The city council’s decision, made during an intense meeting in June 2023, allows only five flags to be displayed on public property: the American flag, the Michigan flag, and flags that represent the international character of Hamtramck. This change in policy emerged amid concerns voiced by some members of the all-Muslim city council, who claimed that displaying the Pride flag conflicted with their beliefs.

The city had previously allowed the display of the Pride flag in 2021 and 2022, but the new policy passed in 2023 resulted in a swift resolution against such displays. The lawsuit was filed by two former members of the Human Relations Commission who were removed from their positions after they displayed Pride flags on city property. They argued that the council’s resolution led to their dismissal and amounted to a violation of their free speech rights.

Judge Lawson ruled that the city’s flag policy did not infringe upon free speech, as it prohibits the display of all private flags, not only specific ones. This ruling effectively upholds the city’s decision to maintain a neutral stance regarding flags on public property.

According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, over 40% of Hamtramck’s 27,000 residents were born in other countries, with a significant portion of the population having Yemeni or Bangladeshi roots. Mayor Amer Ghalib, who is of Yemeni descent and has been nominated by President Donald Trump to be the U.S. ambassador to Kuwait, emphasized that the council’s approach aims to maintain neutrality and is not intended to target any groups.

Despite the ban on Pride flags in public spaces, local businesses and residents are still permitted to display the flags on their private properties. However, the policy has drawn criticism, with opponents suggesting that it undermines free speech and damages Hamtramck’s inclusive reputation, particularly considering its history as an immigrant-friendly community.

A recent motion proposed the removal of two commissioners from the Human Relations Commission following their violation of the ordinance by flying Pride flags. This action represents a tangible response to the heightened tensions surrounding the flag policy.

As of September 8, 2025, the lawsuit against the city was dismissed with prejudice, which means it cannot be refiled. As the community adjusts to the new flag policy, reports have emerged detailing instances of thefts and vandalism related to Pride flags in Hamtramck, leading to police investigations into the incidents.

The court’s ruling and the council’s decision mark a significant moment in Hamtramck’s ongoing discussions about representation, identity, and community values. As the public responds to the judgment and its implications, the conversation around inclusivity and freedom of expression continues to resonate within this diverse city.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• AP News: Michigan City Pride Flag
• Wikipedia: Hamtramck, Michigan
• CBS News: Lawsuit Against Hamtramck Over Pride Flag
• Google Search: Hamtramck Pride Flag
• Detroit News: Court Clears Way for Dismissal Suit Hamtramck
• Encyclopedia Britannica: LGBTQ Rights
• Fox News: Michigan City May Ban LGBTQ Flags
• Google News: Hamtramck LGBTQ
• Arab American News: Federal Court Dismissal Lawsuit Hamtramck