why are flags at half staff today

Flags are at half-staff today as a mark of respect for the victims of a mass shooting that occurred on August 27, 2025, at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis, Minnesota. This tragic event involved the deaths of two children and injuries to at least 17 others. The U.S. President issued a proclamation ordering flags to be flown at half-staff nationwide from August 27 until sunset on August 31, 2025, to honor the victims of this senseless act of violence.