Detroit Lakes Rainbow Display Ban Draws Backlash

DETROIT LAKES (trfnews.i234.me) — A new school board directive is changing what students and staff may display.

The Detroit Lakes School Board approved the directive in a 4-2 vote on July 27, 2026.

It bans materials not funded, sponsored, or approved by the district.

The rule covers backpacks, lockers, classroom doors, and other school spaces.

Rainbow stickers, posters, buttons, and flags were specifically discussed during the meeting.

Some teachers had used small rainbow stickers to mark classrooms as safe spaces for LGBTQ+ students.

Students Voice Concern

The directive quickly drew concern from students, including incoming senior Molly Jo.

“I could not believe that our school board would be the one doing it,” Molly said.

She said the school had previously felt open and accepting toward LGBTQ+ students.

Molly also questioned the directive because the high school has an approved Gay-Straight Alliance club.

She believes the new rule may discourage students from showing their identities or supporting classmates.

“It feels like they’re telling them to be quiet,” Molly said.

The directive was not listed on the meeting agenda.

Superintendent Mark Jenson said the motion surprised him during the meeting.

Supporters said the rule should keep political messages out of district spaces.

They said the same standard should cover abortion, gun rights, gun control, and other disputed issues.

Supporters also argued the district should not appear to support one political position.

Opponents said rainbow symbols are not campaign materials.

They described the displays as signs of safety, support, and acceptance.

Molly called the directive a threat to civil rights and free expression.

Students are now discussing a public response before classes resume.

Molly told TRFR News that students may distribute stickers, buttons, and flags.

She said the action could happen on the first school day.

The district has not announced whether students could face discipline for those actions.

The directive remains active while debate continues across the school community.

The board is scheduled to meet again on Aug. 24.

Residents can review information through the Detroit Lakes Public Schools website.

The district also posts schedules and public documents on its school board page.

The debate centers on whether rainbow symbols are political messages or personal expressions.

The next meeting may bring more public comments and questions about enforcement.

I’m Adrian Cole reporting for TRF News.