President Donald Trump’s “One Flag Policy” restricts flag displays at U.S. government buildings, sparking debate on national unity and diversity representation.
At a Glance
- Trump’s “One Flag Policy” allows only the American flag and official government flags at U.S. facilities
- The policy reverses Biden’s 2021 order permitting LGBTQ+ Pride and Black Lives Matter flags
- Exceptions include POW/MIA and Wrongful Detainees flags
- Government employees violating the policy may face disciplinary actions
- The initiative is part of Trump’s broader agenda to remove “wokeness” from government
Trump Administration Implements “One Flag Policy”
The Trump administration has taken a decisive step in reshaping the visual representation of American values at government facilities worldwide. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has issued an order implementing the “One Flag Policy,” which allows only the American flag to be flown at U.S. facilities, with limited exceptions for the POW/MIA and Wrongful Detainees Flags.
This new policy marks a significant shift from the previous administration’s approach. It effectively reverses a 2021 order by former President Joe Biden that had permitted the display of flags such as the LGBTQ+ Pride flag and the Black Lives Matter flag at State Department buildings. The change aligns with Trump’s broader political objectives and his commitment to promoting national solidarity.
Trump’s "One Flag Policy" Ends Pride and Other Flag Displays at Embassies and government buildings
In a new directive from President Donald Trump, the U.S. government has established the "One Flag Policy," which mandates that only the U.S. flag—read more below
— NBC Palm Springs (@NBCPalmSprings) January 24, 2025
The “One Flag Policy” emphasizes the American flag as a unifying symbol of justice, liberty, and democracy. The order states, “The flag of the United States of America united all Americans under the universal principles of justice, liberty, and democracy. These values, which are the bedrock of our great country, are shared by all American citizens, past and present.”
“The U.S. flag is a powerful symbol of pride and it is fitting and respectful that only the U.S. flag be flown or displayed at U.S. facilities, both domestically and abroad,” the policy memorandum said.
Supporters of the policy argue that it restores respect for the American flag and promotes a cohesive national identity. They contend that government buildings should prioritize the display of national symbols over flags representing specific social or political movements.
The implementation of the “One Flag Policy” has not been without controversy. As you would expect; it’s a Trump policy, after all, and Democrats can’t ever admit he’s right about anything.
Critics argue that it diminishes the representational diversity that was prevalent during the Biden administration, potentially marginalizing various communities.
Civil rights organizations have expressed concern about the policy’s impact on inclusivity and representation. Some view it as a step backward in recognizing and supporting “diverse communities” within the United States.
Broader Implications and Future Outlook
The “One Flag Policy” is part of a series of executive orders signed by President Trump aimed at reshaping American diplomatic and foreign policy. It aligns with his administration’s broader agenda to remove what they term as “wokeness” from the U.S. government, including cutting diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives introduced during the Biden Administration.
“We’re going to stop the destructive and divisive diversity, equity, and inclusion mandates across the government and private sector and return our country to the merit system,” Trump said.
As the policy takes effect, its impact on diplomatic relations and internal government operations remains to be seen. The administration’s stance on flag displays at U.S. facilities will likely continue to be a topic of debate, reflecting broader discussions about national identity, diversity, and representation in American society.