In North Carolina, Governor Josh Stein has announced that all U.S. and North Carolina flags at state facilities will be flown at full staff on Monday, January 20, 2025. This is to honor Inauguration Day and Martin Luther King Jr. Day. The decision temporarily pauses the 30-day mourning period for former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away on December 29, 2024. Flags had been at half-staff since December 30, 2024, in accordance with federal flag code, which requires a 30-day half-staff display following the death of a former president.
The U.S. Flag Code specifies that when a president or former president passes away, the flag must be flown at half-staff for 30 days. This tradition is a national gesture of mourning and respect. However, significant events like Inauguration Day may require temporary changes to this protocol. In this case, Governor Stein’s directive ensures that the state appropriately honors both the inauguration of a new president and the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Following Inauguration Day, flags will return to half-staff from sunrise on January 21 until sunset on January 29, 2025, to continue honoring the late President Carter. This approach balances the observance of national traditions with respect for a former president’s memory.
North Carolina is among several states adopting this approach. Many other states have also chosen to raise flags to full staff on Inauguration Day despite the ongoing mourning period for President Carter. This decision highlights the importance of marking the peaceful transition of power, a cornerstone of American democracy.
The celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day holds special significance. It was established as a federal holiday after a long struggle that began following Dr. King’s assassination in 1968. Despite resistance, the holiday was signed into law in 1983 and is now observed nationwide. The day serves as an opportunity for reflection and service, honoring Dr. King’s vision of equality, justice, and non-violence.
In summary, North Carolina’s decision to adjust flag protocols on January 20, 2025, reflects a commitment to honoring multiple significant events and individuals. By raising flags to full staff on Inauguration Day and Martin Luther King Jr. Day and then returning them to half-staff to continue mourning President Carter, the state pays tribute to its past, present, and future leaders.
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