Utah State Representative Trevor Lee has introduced a bill that would rename Harvey Milk Boulevard in Salt Lake City to “Charlie Kirk Boulevard”—a move that has sparked widespread backlash and raised serious concerns about state overreach into local governance.

Street names may seem symbolic, but they reflect the values and history a community chooses to honor. Harvey Milk was one of the first openly gay elected officials in the United States and a symbol of LGBTQ+ rights and public service. His name was chosen by Salt Lake City residents and leaders through a local process. Replacing it with the name of a national political commentator—without any local input—undermines that process and disrespects the city's autonomy.

This isn’t just about one name. It’s about whether state lawmakers should have the power to override local decisions just because they disagree with them politically. City Council Member Eva Lopez Chavez said it best: “Municipal governments are the closest branch of government to the people.” Naming a street is a local responsibility—not a state political football.

We are calling on members of the Utah State Legislature to reject Rep. Lee’s bill and affirm the principle of local control. Lawmakers should focus on real issues affecting Utah families—like affordable housing, public education, and healthcare—not performative bills aimed at stirring division.

Sign this petition if you believe Salt Lake City has the right to choose its own street names—and that Harvey Milk Boulevard should remain exactly that.

Photo: Visit Salt Lake