Days after taking office, President Donald Trump banned Pride and Black Lives Matter flags from being flown at U.S. embassies and government facilities. His administration implemented a “one flag policy,” permitting only the U.S. flag, along with Hostage of Wrongful Detainee, Missing in Action, and Prisoner of War flags.

This policy was introduced by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, emphasizing the U.S. flag as the sole symbol of national pride. The Senate approved the order with a 99-0 vote. Previously, U.S. embassies worldwide, including in Brazil, Russia, and Latvia, had displayed Pride and BLM flags to mark significant events like Black History Month and the International Day Against Homophobia.

Critics, including Kevin Jennings of Lambda Legal, called the move “petty and mean-spirited,” arguing that such flags symbolize inclusivity without harm. Social media users also condemned the ban, labeling it a violation of free expression and human rights.

Violations of the new rule could lead to disciplinary action, including termination. However, the policy’s broader impact on U.S. diplomacy remains a subject of debate.