Flags in New York to Fly at Half-Staff All Week for Reason

Governor Hochul of New York has made an unprecedented decision to order all flags in the state to be flown at half-mast for an entire week. This unusual move is typically only done in the case of significant tragedies or the passing of a prominent figure, whereas the normal practice is to lower flags for 24 hours. The last time flags remained at half-mast for an extended period was following the death of President Jimmy Carter in December.

The reason behind this week-long observance is the recent passing of Pope Francis, who died on Monday due to a stroke and heart failure at the age of 88. Just hours before his passing, the Pope was seen addressing Catholics on Easter Sunday. Governor Hochul, a devoted Catholic, mourned the loss of Pope Francis, whom she first met during his historic visit to New York in 2015. Last year, she participated in the Pontifical Summit on climate change held at the Vatican, highlighting Pope Francis’ advocacy for various marginalized groups such as the LGBTQ+ community, immigrants, and incarcerated individuals.

In honor of the late Pope Francis, flags across New York State will remain at half-mast until his funeral services, scheduled to take place on Saturday. This period of mourning reflects the respect and admiration felt for the religious leader and his efforts to foster compassion and inclusivity among all people.

The Governor’s decision to prolong the display of mourning for the Pope’s passing showcases the deep impact of Pope Francis’ leadership and values transcending religious boundaries. This gesture not only pays tribute to the Pope’s legacy but also serves as a reminder of the importance of solidarity and empathy in these challenging times. Through this symbolic act, New York State honors the memory of a revered figure who dedicated his life to promoting love, acceptance, and social justice for all.