why are flags flying at half staff today

Flags are flying at half-staff today to honor the victims of a recent mass shooting that occurred on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at Annunciation Catholic Church and School in Minneapolis, Minnesota. This tragic event resulted in the deaths of children and injuries to others. The President of the United States ordered U.S. flags to be flown at half-staff nationwide as a sign of respect and mourning, and this directive is to remain in effect until sunset on Sunday, August 31, 2025. Various states, including Connecticut and Virginia, have also directed their flags to be lowered in solidarity and remembrance of the victims of this senseless act of violence.