As we gather to celebrate the birth of our great nation on this Fourth of July, it is an opportunity to reflect upon the values and ideals that have made America the greatest country that has ever existed. For centuries, our American flag has inspired and rallied Americans through times of triumph and tragedy. It reminds us of the sacrifices made to secure our freedoms. It represents the ideals upon which our nation was founded – freedom, justice, and equality – and our perpetual quest to form a more perfect union. It stands as a reminder of the unalienable rights given to all of us by our Creator and symbolizes the hope and opportunity that continue to attract people from around the world to move here in pursuit of the American dream.
At a time when our nation feels divided on many important issues, our flag reminds us of the values that unite us as Americans. That’s why we must protect the dignity of our flag at all costs. To that end, I recently co-sponsored Senator Roger Marshall’s (R-KS) One Flag For All Act to prohibit any flag other than the American flag to be flown, draped or displayed on federal buildings. The bill does provide exemptions for Prisoner of War (POW) flags, country flags for visiting diplomats, state flags for members of Congress displaying the flag at their official office, tribal flags, military flags at military bases and installations, and any flag that represents the state, territory, county, city, or local jurisdiction in which the public building is located. We should not allow divisive political issues to be promoted at taxpayer-funded buildings, and we should ensure Old Glory the place of honor it deserves.
As a U.S. Senator, I have the great privilege of promoting our flag to all Nebraskans by participating in the time-honored tradition of requesting flags to be flown over the U.S. Capitol. This practice is a simple yet meaningful way to honor and recognize outstanding individuals, groups, and milestones. Whether it is to recognize the service of a brave woman or man in uniform, commemorate a well-earned retirement, or celebrate a milestone birthday, these flags can hold special significance to many.
