Displaying the bright stars and stripes alongside a state flag is common. Every one of our 50 states flies its own unique banner. You’ll spot the American flag side by side with a state’s standard at schools, businesses, and homes. Wondering how to hang them just right? Remember, the U.S. Flag Code lays down the law on how this needs to be done because of the flag’s deep symbolism. What’s the right way to show both flags together? Dig in to discover the guidelines and ensure you’re flying them proudly and correctly!
Flagpole
The way in which you should position the American flag with a state flag varies depending on whether you display them on a flagpole or a wall. When displayed on a flagpole, the American flag should be hoisted to the very top so that the state flag is below it. According to the U.S. Veterans Affairs (VA), the American flag should always be displayed above state flags on a flagpole. The only exception is church services conducted by the Navy.
It’s proper etiquette to display the American flag above all other flags when using a flagpole. Regardless of which state flag you are planning to display it with, the American flag should be hoisted to the highest point of the flagpole.
Wall
When displaying the American flag and a state flag on a wall, you’ll need to use a different layout. The U.S. Flag Code states that the American flag should be positioned to the observer’s left while the other state, such as a state flag, should be positioned to the observer’s right. As a result, neither of the flags should be higher than the other.
You can always display the American flag and a state flag independently of each other. Some Americans, for example, display the American flag in front of their home and a state flag somewhere inside their home. If you’re going to display them together, though, you should follow the U.S. Flag Code’s requirements. When using a flagpole, the U.S. Flag Code requires the American flag to be higher than the state flag. When displaying the two flags on a wall, the American flag should be positioned to the observer’s left and the state flag to the observer’s right.