June 17, 2021

Governor Walz Orders Flags at Half-Staff to Honor Lives Lost to COVID-19

Governor Tim Walz has directed all flags at state and federal buildings in Minnesota to be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Saturday, June 19, 2021. He has directed flags to fly at half- staff on the 19^th of every month to remember, mourn, and honor lives lost due to COVID-19.

“While Minnesota may be on the path toward getting back to normal, we must not forget those who can’t be with us to see it happening. Over 7,000 of our family members and friends have died due to this pandemic,” said Governor Walz. “On this day, I encourage Minnesotans to come together by lowering their flags to honor and remember all of those who have lost their lives and support all of those grieving.”

“Even though over 3 million Minnesotans have taken the vaccine, we can’t forget the families who have suffered and continue to endure unimaginable loss due to COVID-19,” said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. “We must each do our part to continue to keep each other safe and support one another as we rebuild our communities.”

Individuals, businesses, and other organizations are encouraged to join in lowering their flags to honor Minnesotans who have lost their lives to COVID-19 and their families.

Flags at Half-Staff In keeping with appropriate flag etiquette and U.S. Code, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz may order the state flag to be flown at half-staff under very limited circumstances. He may also order the national flag to be flown at half-staff on state property only. A state flag on state property is required by law to be flown at half-staff if the national flag is flown at half-staff.