In a move inspired by recent developments at the White House, Sen. Roger Marshall (R-KS) has proposed a bill to restrict the display of non-American flags on federal properties. This is a direct response to the Biden administration’s decision to display a “Pride flag” in a position of preeminence flanked by American flags at the White House during Pride Month celebrations.
Marshall criticized the Biden administration, claiming that the White House prioritized a radical social agenda over patriotism. He said, “The American flag stands for liberty and justice for ALL and should never be undermined by anyone, especially the President of the United States.” He further emphasized the importance of maintaining the American flag’s supremacy as a symbol of the nation’s freedom and sacrifice, referencing the many servicemembers and veterans who have fought and died for it.
The senator’s proposed legislation, known as the One Flag for All Act, would make it illegal to display any flag other than the American flag on federal buildings or properties, save for a few exceptions. These include flags representing the nation of a visiting diplomat or the state of a member of Congress, as well as the POW/MIA flag at military installations. As described by Marshall, the goal of the act is to ensure the American flag never gets sidelined for culture wars and political stunts.
This is DISGRACEFUL.
Why is the AMERICAN flag surrounding the pride flag??
This nonsense has to end!!!https://t.co/V3xJtIFucB
— Chad Prather (@WatchChad) June 11, 2023
There’s been a growing outcry from the conservative community concerning the White House’s Pride flag display. BlazeTV host Chad Prather tweeted, “This is DISGRACEFUL. Why is the AMERICAN flag surrounding the pride flag?? This nonsense has to end!!!”
“We have a duty…[to stand] up in defense of this country instead of a radical Leftist ideology that results in a pride flag being hung at the same level as the US flag on the front of the White House"
“Does the flag of the United States mean NOTHING?” #FlagDay pic.twitter.com/aNx7E4lm8E
— Rep. Chip Roy Press Office (@RepChipRoy) June 14, 2023
Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX), another outspoken critic of the display, echoed Prather’s sentiment, calling the White House’s decision to flank the Pride flag with the American flag on the front of the presidential residence “despicable.”
In the wake of the controversy, several Republicans have started taking a more active stance. A group of them penned a letter on June 6 expressing concern that Pride flags were being flown at Department of Veterans Affairs facilities, potentially overshadowing the American flag, whose Stars and Stripes represent all Americans.
As this story develops, Americans, regardless of their political leanings, will be well served to remember that while flags are potent symbols, our nation’s unity and strength rest on more than symbolism alone. They depend on every American’s commitment to liberty, justice, and respect for all our fellow citizens.
