West Hollywood slammed for flying Pride flags at half-mast in honour of Charlie Kirk

The City of West Hollywood has responded to a backlash over the decision to lower LGBTQ+ Pride flags to half-mast in tribute to right-wing pundit Charlie Kirk, who was shot dead in Utah last week.

Among those lowered to what Americans call half-staff, were two LGBTQ+ Pride flags outside the VCA TLC Animal Hospital on Santa Monica Boulevard.

The decision to lower the flags was branded “heinous” by locals and users on social media, given Charlie Kirk’s well documented homophobic views, which included describing LGBTQ+ people as “groomers”.

President Donald Trump called for all flags to be lowered, and West Hollywood officials said on Sunday (14 September) said that their decision aligned with that request, rather than an “endorsement of, Mr Kirk’s political views or actions”.

A spokesperson said: “The action was undertaken in accordance with the city’s Policy for Recognitions and Memorials, which acknowledges that the city follows the direction of the president in determining when flags in the city are flown at half-staff.

“We recognise the importance of ensuring that community values are reflected in the city’s actions,” the spokesperson added.

To address the backlash, West Hollywood City Council is reportedly planning to discuss the matter at future committee meetings where they will consider updating the policy.

News sites claim Charlie Kirk’s suspected shooter was ‘anti-fascist’ and ‘transgender’

The backlash followed several news outlets linking suspect Tyler Robinson to the LGBTQ+ community because of messages alleged to have been etched on to bullet casings found at the scene.

The Wall Street Journal reported that a bulletin “circulated widely among law enforcement officials” said the casings had been inscribed with “transgender and anti-fascist ideology.” The statement was later retracted, the Washington Blade reported.

Human Rights Campaign national press secretary Brandon Wolf said “jumping to those conclusions was reckless, irresponsible and led to a wave of threats against the trans community from right-wing influencers”.

He went on to claim: “Many online who peddled rumours with incomplete and untrue details did not care about the facts. They cared about inciting rage.

“Rage is what makes this country a tinder box. People’s rush to lob hot takes and clickbait is not how we are going to get out of this deeply divided, dangerous era. News outlets and people with platforms have to do better.”

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