Flag Day, celebrated on June 14th each year, recognizes the Continental Congress’ adoption of the American Flag. Although the day can be overlooked due to its proximity to Memorial Day, Flag Day is a way to observe United States history and the nation’s accomplishments.
According to the Almanac, Flag Day originated in 1777 after the Continental Congress used the flag as America’s symbol amidst the Revolutionary War. Despite the day’s initial observance, President Woodrow Wilson made the holiday official in 1916.
To many, the American Flag has been a symbol of pride throughout history. However, recent events have altered people’s views of the flag and its meaning in society. According to NPR, a story published in 2020 asked Americans to share their views of the flag. The article shared the thoughts of approximately 1,800 people, including those from the Liberal and Republican parties, retired veterans and several others.
Opinions toward the flag ranged from “impatience” with those who view it as a “symbol burdened by racism,” to people who believe the flag “comes with baggage that can’t be ignored.” Although these contrasting opinions have created disagreements and in some cases, violence, the article said several respondents utilize the flag alongside other flags to recognize their personal views and create a "national unity.”
Apart from solely recognizing the American Flag, Flag Day acknowledges the history and traditions of those who fought and continue to serve in the military. Terry St. Peter, director of the Veterans and military student services center, served in the U.S. Army for over 20 years and said Flag Day symbolizes multiple things.
“(It is) the significance of us declaring our independence and coming together under a shared goal of freedom and that’s important,” Peter said. “I mean that was the birth of the United States and that flag played a part of that as well.”
Peter said observing the flag is important to him and all veterans as it means more than just the united goals of the nation.
The flag’s significance in history is important to learn about and recognize along with the flag’s meaning. Dr. Chester Pach, associate professor of history, said the flag has evolved alongside U.S. history and can be utilized in different ways.
“The flag is dynamic and represents a nation at different stages of growth,” Pach said. “Flags are used sometimes as ways to celebrate the United States or to protest… so the flag itself, you know, has taken on different connotations depending on the political and cultural and social circumstances of the time.”
With students on summer break during the holiday, Ohio University does not hold anything special to recognize Flag Day. However, Flag Day also falls on the birth service of the U.S. Army and Peter said the day has always held important significance.
“There are always celebrations because it’s our birthday and we do different events, which always end with a cake being cut, typically by the oldest member of the unit and the youngest member who come together,” Peter said.
Peter said the cake-cutting represents the new and old army and he experienced the ceremony during his time in the Bobcat Battalion.
Amid controversy, it is important for people to recognize the American Flag and its influential role in history over time. Pach said the holiday, although overshadowed by others, is an opportunity for people to learn about their background.
“As a historian, I’m always happy when people want to learn more about their society and their nation and so Flag Day is a way of doing that,” Pach said. “I’m all in favor of it.”
