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, mandating that only the American flag be flown from diplomatic sites, as reported by the Washington Free Beacon.
Effective immediately, the directive states that " only the United States flag is permitted at U.S. facilities, both at home and abroad, and in government communications". The administration emphasizes that the U.S. flag symbolizes unity among Americans, embodying the core values of justice, liberty, and democracy.
The decision is framed as a measure of respect for the American flag, which the State Department describes as a powerful emblem of national pride.
However, exceptions exist for the Prisoner of War/Missing in Action flag and the Wrongful Detainees flag. Employees who do not comply with this policy may face disciplinary actions, including termination or reassignment.
This new rule reinforces a previous ban on Pride flag displays that was part of a spending package signed by President Biden, ensuring the prohibition continues beyond that legislation's expiration.