Official State of Rhode Island website

  • Change the visual color theme between light or dark modes
  • Adjust the font size from the system default to a larger size
  • Adjust the space between lines of text from the system default to a larger size
  • Adjust the space between words from the system default to a larger size
State of Rhode Island, Governor Dan McKee ,

Governor McKee Directs U.S. and Rhode Island Flags Lowered

Published on Thursday, May 12, 2022

PROVIDENCE, RI - In accordance with a proclamation from President Joseph R. Biden, Governor Dan McKee has directed U.S. and Rhode Island flags to be flown at half-staff at all state facilities and buildings. The flags will remain at half-staff until sunset on May 16, 2022 in memory of the 1 million American lives lost to COVID-19 and the loved ones left behind.

“Today, we pause to reflect on a tragic milestone -- 1 million American lives have been lost to COVID-19. Susan and I are keeping everyone who has lost a loved one to this virus in our hearts. COVID-19 has challenged us in so many ways, but the American people and the people of Rhode Island have shown great compassion and immense resilience, together. As we honor the memory of those we have lost, let us recommit to protecting ourselves and those around us by getting vaccinated and boosted."

McKee also asks Rhode Islanders to lower their flags as a sign of respect.

###