Donald Trump bans Pride and Black Lives Matter flags from the State Department and American buildings across the globe
The Trump administration has implemented a ban on the display of Pride and Black Lives Matter flags at the State Department and U.S. buildings worldwide, declaring that only the American flag will be permitted to fly from diplomatic sites, as reported by the Washington Free Beacon.
According to the obtained directive, “Effective immediately, only the flag of the United States of America is authorized for display at U.S. facilities, both at home and abroad, and in U.S. government communications.”
The American flag symbolizes unity among all citizens under the core values of justice, liberty, and democracy—principles that have long been the foundation of the nation, embraced by Americans throughout history.
The new directive from the Trump State Department emphasizes that this decision is meant to show “respect” for the American flag.
“The U.S. flag stands as a strong emblem of national pride, and it is appropriate and respectful that only it be displayed at U.S. facilities, both domestically and internationally,” the statement reads.
There are, however, two exceptions to this rule: State Department locations are still allowed to display the Prisoner of War/Missing in Action flag and the Wrongful Detainees flag.
Employees of the State Department who do not comply with this policy may face disciplinary measures, which could include termination or reassignment to their original agency, as outlined in the order.
Previously, the display of the Pride flag outside State Department facilities was prohibited under a $1.2 trillion spending bill signed by President Joe Biden in March, which stated that “none of the funds appropriated or otherwise made available by this Act may be obligated or expended to fly or display a flag over a facility of the United States Department of State.”
This new policy ensures that this restriction continues beyond the expiration of that spending bill.
