‘Reclaim the Flag’ Director Alexis Bittar on Why Some People Were Too ‘Nervous’ to Be in Doc About LGBTQ Community’s Relationship to the American Flag

Filmmaker and designer Alexis Bittar has explored the complex relationship between the LGBTQ+ community and the American flag in his new documentary, "Reclaim the Flag." Bittar, known for his celebrity jewelry designs, has personally embraced the flag, displaying one prominently outside his Brooklyn home. He expressed a personal affection for the national symbol, noting that he has yet to display Pride flags he has acquired, indicating a personal prioritization of the American flag.

The documentary delves into the reasons why some individuals within the LGBTQ+ community may feel hesitant or "nervous" to publicly associate with the American flag. Bittar's film aims to unpack these sensitivities, suggesting that historical and ongoing societal dynamics have created a complicated emotional landscape for many regarding national symbols. The project highlights a desire to redefine or re-appropriate the flag's meaning within a community that has often felt marginalized or excluded by mainstream American society.

Bittar's personal stance, as evidenced by his prominent display of the flag and his comments, suggests a belief that the symbol can be embraced and reinterpreted by all Americans, including those in the LGBTQ+ community. The film's exploration of apprehension among potential participants underscores the deeply personal and varied ways individuals connect with national identity and symbolism. "Reclaim the Flag" appears positioned to foster dialogue about belonging, patriotism, and the evolving perception of American iconography.