During public comments at the January 20, 2026, Federal Way City Council meeting, I addressed the renewed debate over the city’s flag policy and raised questions about equity, public participation, and government decision-making.
I explained why I believe removing the city’s flagpole created equal access: no individual, organization, or politician receives special authority to decide which community flag is raised and which is not.
I also asked whether the Diversity Commission conducted public outreach before bringing this issue forward, as called for in its 2025 work plan. Residents deserve to know who participated in the process, who initiated the proposal, and whether the recommendations reflect broad community input or the views of a smaller group.
Finally, I asked residents and city leaders to consider how any flag policy would operate under different political and historical circumstances—not only when the flag being proposed is one they support.
These questions are about fairness, transparency, and establishing rules that apply equally to everyone.
Watch the full public comment and share your perspective respectfully below.
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