Why Are the Flags at Half Mast Today?
by J Nandhini
Updated Jan 24, 2023
Why are Flags at Half-Staff Today?
The White House declared on January 22nd that in honor of the victims of the nation's fifth mass killing this month, all public buildings, military posts, naval stations, and vessels within the United States would be flown at half-mast and half-staff.
The White House announced that flags were flown at half-staff and half-mast this week as a mark of respect for the 11 people killed in the Monterey Park mass shooting.
On Saturday night, during a Lunar New Year celebration at the Star Ballroom Dance Studio, a gunman entered the venue at 10:22 p.m. and started shooting at the patrons, resulting in the death of 10 people on the spot. Unfortunately, one more victim passed away on Monday.
According to authorities, the gunman attempted to attack another dance hall in the nearby community of Alhambra, but was disarmed before he could do so.
The reason for the shooting is still unclear.
11 people were killed in a shooting that took place during a Lunar New Year celebration in Monterey Park, as shown in the photos.
Why are Flags at Half-Staff Today?
In a statement on January 22, the White House declared that as a mark of respect for the victims of the nation's fifth mass killing this month, flags in all public buildings, grounds, military posts, naval stations, and naval vessels across the United States will be flown at half-mast and half-staff.
California Governor Newsom expressed his condolences to the Asian American and Pacific Islander communities affected by the tragic shooting in Monterey Park that took place during the Lunar New Year celebration. He conveyed that the state stands with the communities during this difficult time and his thoughts are with those who lost loved ones and those who were injured in the act of violence. He also mentioned that the shooting took place during a night that should have been filled with joy.
How Long Will Flags Be at Half-Staff?
Flags were to remain at half-staff until Jan. 26 at sunset, according to the White House.
Flags were lowered to half-staff across the nation, from California to the East Coast, as a mark of respect.
