John,

The MAGA movement is trying to co-opt the symbol of democracy most widely recognized throughout the world: the American flag. A banner that should reflect a commitment to freedom, democracy, and the rule of law is at risk of being captured by those who would suppress voting rights, take away basic freedoms, and attempt to overthrow a free and fair election.

Because of these anti-democratic measures, some of us working to preserve our freedoms feel conflicted about displaying the flag. We don’t want our friends and neighbors to mistake us for those who brandished the flag as they mounted the Capitol steps while calling for the assassination of the Vice President and Speaker of the House. We don’t want to be confused with those who wave the flag even as they trample the rights and freedoms guaranteed in the Constitution.

What’s a true defender of democracy to do?

The Union’s Take Back the Flag campaign calls on every American who supports democracy to fly the flag proudly. By taking back our flag, we stand with generations of Americans who have sacrificed to ensure that our country remains a beacon of liberty. We remind the world that the word “patriot” should never be used to describe those who would try to destroy our democracy.

We understand that flying the flag may not be easy for those who participated in anti-war protests or supported those who took a knee when the national anthem played. But make no mistake: Displaying the American flag does not mean you agree with everything our country has done. Our democracy is imperfect. Waving the flag is a statement of aspiration, of belief that everyone has a right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. It is a commitment to continuing the work to achieve equality and justice for all.

If you want to be sure your flag waving doesn’t indicate that you’re a MAGA supporter or if you feel conflicted in other ways, we suggest this: Fly another banner alongside the American flag, e.g. one that makes clear you support LGBTQ rights or recognize Black Lives Matter, or you support peace in Ukraine. 

Please join us in this effort to restore the flag’s true meaning and encourage your volunteers to participate.

Call To Action

• Take a photo of your Red, White and Blue, post it on social media, tag @jointheunionus (or send it to [email protected]) with a caption stating what the flag means to you. Include your state!
• Take a video (preferably horizontal, 2 minutes or less), post it on social media, tag @jointheunionus (or send it to [email protected]) discussing your discomfort with the way the flag has been co-opted by extremists and why YOU are reclaiming it as a symbol of democracy.

For much of our history, the American flag has been treated with reverence. Soldiers have risked their lives to retrieve a flag in battle. Flags have draped the caskets of fallen heroes. After 9/11, three New York City firefighters raised the flag above the remains of the World Trade Center. It’s time to return the flag to all Americans and for it to be flown proudly by those who value democracy. 
 

Together,

The Union