City Council Adopts Display of Flags Policy

June 14 is marked in the United States as Flag Day, recognizing the adoption of the flag of the United States on June 14, 1777. During today’s council meeting, the Cedar Rapids City Council adopted a Display of Flags policy to govern when commemorative, special occasion and other ceremonial flags may be flown on flagpoles at City-owned properties.

The City of Cedar Rapids values diversity, equity and inclusion. As an expression of these City values, the new policy provides for commemorative flags to be flown during 11 special occasions:

• Black History Month,
• Women’s History Month,
• Arab American Heritage Month,
• Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander Heritage Month,
• Mental Health Awareness Month,
• LGBTQ+ Pride Month,
• Juneteenth,
• Hispanic Heritage Month,
• National Disability Employment Awareness Month,
• Native American Heritage Month, and
• National Veterans and Military Families Month.

Under the policy, other commemorative, special-occasion and ceremonial flags may be displayed to recognize Federal or State holidays, to commemorate any period recognized by local proclamation, to accompany any official action or ceremony of the City, or in conjunction with an event involving any official Cedar Rapids Sister Cities.

“The policy directs all flags must express the views, values and goals of the City as determined by City Council,” said Elizabeth Buch, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Manager for the City of Cedar Rapids. “This is another way we can show our commitment to creating meaningful relationships with all residents who call Cedar Rapids home while listening to — and showing support for — historically marginalized voices in our community.”

The Juneteenth flag will be the first flag flown under the new policy. It will be raised at the City Hall flagpole at the corner of 2nd Avenue SE and 1st Street on June 16 and fly throughout the weekend.

Juneteenth is a Federal holiday commemorating the anniversary of an announcement proclaiming freedom for enslaved people in Texas. June 19, 1865 is recognized as the date when the last slaves in America were freed — nearly two and a half years after President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation.

“While symbolic gestures only go so far, this will be an exciting and visible moment recognizing our City’s commitment to inclusion for all. The City of Cedar Rapids continues to share the message that all are welcome in this community,” said Buch.

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