Boston University Halts Removal of Pride Flags After Backlash

University president apologizes and pledges to reconsider policy amid community outcry.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 8:20pm

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A serene, cinematic painting depicting a single Pride flag hanging in a campus window, the flag's vibrant colors contrasted by the warm, golden light and deep shadows surrounding it, conveying a sense of quiet contemplation and the importance of visible LGBTQIA+ representation.The restoration of Pride flags on Boston University's campus signals a renewed commitment to inclusivity and diversity.Boston Today

Boston University has temporarily stopped removing Pride flags and other signs from campus buildings following a growing community backlash. In an email to the university community, President Melissa Gilliam apologized and acknowledged that the policy had 'surfaced deep questions and concerns' about belonging, expression, safety, and respect.

Why it matters

The removal of Pride flags and other displays of identity on campus had disproportionately impacted LGBTQIA+ students, faculty, and staff, sparking concerns about free speech and inclusion at the university. The president's reversal and commitment to reconsider the policy signals a shift in addressing these concerns.

The details

About three weeks ago, a group of Boston University faculty sent Gilliam a letter urging her to take action after several professors reported that Pride flags or other signs had been removed from their offices. Last week, a free speech advocacy group also called on the university to stop the removals. In response, more flags appeared on windows across campus as faculty and staff joined the protest.

  • Three weeks ago, a group of faculty sent a letter to the president about the flag removals.
  • Last week, a free speech group called on the university to stop the removals.

The players

Melissa Gilliam

The president of Boston University who apologized for the flag removal policy and pledged to reconsider it.

Nathan Phillips

A Boston University professor who was outspoken about the removal of the Pride flag from his office window.

Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE)

A Philadelphia-based group that called on Boston University to take action against the flag removals.

Joseph Harris

A Boston University professor who co-authored a recent letter to the president about free speech suppression on campus.

Laura Jiménez

An associate dean of equity, diversity, and inclusion at the BU Wheelock College of Education & Human Development.

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What they’re saying

“I am deeply sorry. Issues of speech can be complicated, but our institutional values are not. Let me be unequivocal: LGBTQIA+ students, faculty, and staff are an essential part of Boston University. You belong here and are needed here. You are valued and have our support. We remain committed to ensuring all members of this University feel welcome, feel respected, and can thrive.”

— Melissa Gilliam, President, Boston University

“It's just the power of numbers and the power of people. Too many flags went up in too many offices for the administration to take it to the next level. They were asking for a fight that they would not be able to win.”

— Nathan Phillips, Professor, Boston University

“FIRE is pleased that BU has halted its takedown of faculty flags. On college campuses, flags often serve as a visible and accessible way for students and faculty to express their identities and beliefs.”

— Graham Piro, Fellow, Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression

“While it was good to see the harm caused by the removal of Pride flags addressed, the statement did not address the larger pattern of free speech suppression at BU.”

— Joseph Harris, Professor, Boston University

“We need in this time, symbols, to give people hope, faith, a sense of belonging, a sense of safety. I don't think they're separate.”

— Laura Jiménez, Associate Dean of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, BU Wheelock College of Education & Human Development

What’s next

The university has pledged to temporarily halt the removal of Pride flags and other signs while it reconsiders its policy, signaling a commitment to address the concerns raised by the campus community.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of allowing visible displays of identity and inclusion on college campuses, and the need for universities to carefully balance free speech and community values. Boston University's reversal shows the power of collective action in driving change on sensitive issues.