Trump administration bans non-US flags from being flown at embassies
GuardianJan 23
Trump Implements 'One Flag Policy' at Outposts, Embassies
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Above: The national flag of the US flying outside the US Embassy in Nine Elms, London. Image copyright: Yui Mok/Contributor/PA Images via Getty Images
The Facts
The State Department has implemented a "One Flag Policy" mandating that only the US flag be displayed at US diplomatic facilities worldwide, with exceptions for the Prisoner of War/Missing in Action and Wrongful Detainees flags.
The policy, which effectively blocks Pride and Black Lives Matter (BLM) flags from being flown at the facilities, states that "the US flag is a powerful symbol of pride, and it is fitting and respectful that only the US flag be flown or displayed at US facilities, both domestically and abroad."
According to The Washington Free Beacon, State Department employees who violate this policy will "face disciplinary action, including termination of employment or contract, or reassignment to their home agency."
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
The American flag alone should represent all citizens, as it symbolizes the universal principles of justice, liberty, and democracy all Americans share. Additional flags create division and undermine the unity that the Stars and Stripes represent. This policy ensures respect for our national symbol and maintains a focus on American values rather than specific group interests.
Establishment-critical narrative
Banning Pride and BLM flags is discriminatory and sends a harmful message to marginalized communities. These flags serve as important symbols of inclusion and recognition for diverse groups, and their display alongside the American flag demonstrates the nation's commitment to equality and representation for all citizens.
