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By Sam Stevenson
Associate News Editor
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Flags are being lowered to half-staff across several states today and this weekend as governors mark moments of loss, remembrance and reflection.
Why It Matters
Half-staff orders signal public mourning and respect, marking events such as community tragedies, statewide remembrances and memorial services. They can also help residents understand when and how to participate.
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What To Know
Officials in Rhode Island, North Carolina, Nebraska, Maryland, Arizona and Illinois ordered half-staff observances to honor victims of tragedy, fallen public servants and civil rights leaders.
Together, these orders reflect a shared national ritual: lowering the flag to acknowledge grief, honor service and pause in remembrance—with each state, for its own reasons, marking moments that resonate beyond a single day.
Here's why flags are flying lower in six states today and through the weekend.
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Rhode Island
In Rhode Island, flags were lowered beginning February 18 through February 22.
Governor Dan McKee issued the directive to honor the victims of a "tragic shooting" on Monday at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena, an ice-skating rink in Pawtucket.
The order applies to all state buildings and facilities, with residents also encouraged to participate as a sign of respect and unity during a period of mourning.
North Carolina
North Carolina's half-staff order stretches from February 19 through sunset on February 28.
Governor Josh Stein directed U.S. and state flags at state facilities to be lowered in honor of civil rights activist the Reverend Jesse Jackson, who died on Tuesday at age 84.
The proclamation recognizes Jackson's decades-long advocacy for voting rights, education, economic opportunity and social justice, as well as his deep ties to North Carolina through its Agricultural and Technical State University, the HBCU where Jackson played football while completing a bachelor's degree in sociology.
Nebraska
In Nebraska, the flags come down for a single day.
On February 21, U.S. and state flags at city of Omaha facilities are set to be flown at half-staff to honor Mike Yanney, who died on February 14 at age 92.
The order, issued by Mayor John Ewing with authority delegated by Governor Jim Pillen, coincides with Yanney's interment.
Yanney, a longtime business and civic leader who founded of Burlington Capital, was widely known for his philanthropic support of community initiatives across Omaha and the state.
Maryland
Maryland marks February 20 with a one-day half-staff observance for Civil Rights Heroes Day.
Governor Wes Moore ordered the Maryland flag lowered from sunrise to sunset to recognize the courage and sacrifice of civil rights and abolition leaders throughout history.
The annual observance began in 2021 and is intended to reaffirm the state's commitment to justice, opportunity and equality for all residents.
Arizona
Arizona's flags will be lowered on two separate days, February 20 and February 23.
Governor Katie Hobbs issued the order to honor the interments of two Arizona Department of Public Safety crew members, Robert B. Skankey and Hunter R. Bennett, who were killed in a line-of-duty helicopter crash on February 4.
Flags at state buildings are to be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on both dates, reflecting the state's tribute to their service and sacrifice.
Illinois
In Illinois, flags have been at half-staff since February 18 and are scheduled to remain lowered through sunset on February 28.
Governor JB Pritzker ordered the move under the Illinois Flag Display Act to honor Jesse Jackson.
The directive applies to all buildings covered by the act, with the extended period allowing the state to formally recognize Jackson's legacy as a civil rights leader.
What People Are Saying
Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee: "Hearts are heavy across Rhode Island as we grieve this tragedy. We continue to hold the victims and their families in our hearts. Now is the time for Rhode Islanders to stand united and show compassion for one another. Now is a time for togetherness."
North Carolina Governor Josh Stein: "Civil rights icon Reverend Jesse Jackson found a home at North Carolina A&T, where he launched his prolific career working to change this country for the better."
Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs: "We will never forget Hunter R. Bennett and Robert B. Skankey, two members of our Department of Public Safety community who dedicated their lives to serving fellow Arizonans. This is a tragic loss, and I know people across the state join me in sending our deepest condolences to these heroes' families, friends, and communities, as well as their colleagues at DPS."
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