Why are flags at half-staff in California? Here’s what to know

Have you noticed American flags flying at half-staff?

They’ll stay lowered at select locations across California on Friday, Sept. 11.

Here’s why:

When are American flags lowered in California?

Flag directives can come from the U.S. president through official proclamations, or from state governors.

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Federal directives apply to federal properties, while state directives apply to facilities for state agencies.

Businesses and private properties are not required to follow flag directives but can join in the observation.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom has ordered flags to be lowered to honor lawmakers, mass shooting victims and others.

So far in 2026, Newsom has ordered flags at the California State Capitol and all state buildings to be flown at half-staff in remembrance of the Los Angeles wildfires, civil rights leader Rev. Jesse Jackson, and U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham.

The governor often echoes federal proclamations.

Why are US flags at half-staff right now?

On Friday, flags will fly at half-staff in observance of Patriot Day.

The national day of observance calls for flags to be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset.

President Donald Trump issued a proclamation on Wednesday, Sept 9, ordering flags at federal buildings, military posts and naval stations, plus U.S. embassies, to remain lowered Friday in honor of the 2,977 victims of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorism attacks.

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“Amid the ashes of Ground Zero, we made a solemn vow to never forget — a vow that must be renewed in every American heart, taught in every classroom, and honored in every community across our land,” Trump said.

What is Patriot Day?

In 2001, the U.S. Congress designated Sept. 11 each year as Patriot Day to commemorate the 2001, terror attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon using hijacked airliners.

A fourth airline crashed into a field in southwestern Pennsylvania after passengers tried to retake control of the jet.

“The law asks the president to issue an annual proclamation for Patriot Day that directs the U.S. flag to be flown at half-staff and a moment of silence be observed,” Congress.gov said.

In 2009, a proclamation also declared Sept. 11 a national day of service and remembrance.

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However, Patriot Day is not a paid federal holiday.