Theft Of LGBTQ Pride Flag In Montclair Is ‘Hateful Act,’ Group Says

MONTCLAIR, NJ — It’s more than a flag: it’s a “symbol of inclusion and the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ rights.” This is the message that advocates in Montclair have released after a Pride flag was recently stolen in the township.

Police released a statement about the theft earlier this week. The flag was raised on a pole near Church Street and Bloomfield Avenue/South Fullerton Avenue on June 7. It was discovered missing on June 14.

Authorities said anyone with information can contact Det. Jamar Jones at (973) 509-4705.

Members of local advocacy group Out Montclair noted that the town recently celebrated a massive annual Pride Fest, which draws thousands of people from across North Jersey.

The group issued the following statement on Thursday:

“Out Montclair condemns in the strongest terms the theft of the Pride flag that was prominently displayed on the municipal flagpole at the intersection of Church Street and Bloomfield Avenue in Montclair. This hateful act of intolerance has no place in our community. The Pride flag is a symbol of inclusion, welcome, safety, and the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ rights and equality. Its colors represent the vibrant diversity of identities and backgrounds, and the unifying values of acceptance that Montclair prides itself on. To see it removed and stolen is not only disheartening but an attack on the entire LGBTQ+ community and our allies who steadfastly support us.”

Out Montclair continued:

“The theft came after another massively successful Montclair Pride with tremendous turnout and support – Pride is a value clearly cherished and celebrated by the vast majority in our community. We thank the Montclair Police Department for their swift response and investigation into this bias incident. Out Montclair will work closely with law enforcement to ensure the perpetrators are identified and held accountable to the fullest extent of the law. More importantly, we refuse to let this hateful act diminish our Pride or silence our voices. In the face of intolerance, we will respond by uplifting LGBTQ+ visibility and amplifying the values of acceptance, equality, and respect for all. Out Montclair remains steadfastly committed to celebrating our vibrant community.”

“Hatred and prejudice have no place in Montclair,” advocates added. “Our LGBTQ+ community remains unshaken, unbowed and united in Pride.”

In response to the theft, another flag-raising ceremony and rally has been scheduled for Monday, June 24 at 5:30 p.m. at the same location (Church Street and Bloomfield Avenue), organizers said.

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