The flags are at half-staff currently as a nationwide sign of mourning to honor the victims of a recent mass shooting that occurred at a Catholic school in Minneapolis. This includes U.S. flags and various state flags being flown at half-staff from Wednesday through sunset on Sunday, August 31, 2025. The shooting resulted in the deaths of two children and injuries to many others, and the flag lowering is a gesture of respect for these victims of senseless violence. Additionally, some states have individual reasons for flying flags at half-staff, such as commemorations or local tributes related to recent events or notable deaths.