In 2026, the United States celebrates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. While it will bring festivities across the country, the occasion also serves as a moment to reflect on the sacrifices of those who fought and continue to serve to preserve the freedoms Americans enjoy today.
On the last Monday of May, we remember those who died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. Memorial Day is a day of remembrance and reflection and marks the unofficial start of summer. Throughout the holiday weekend, many Americans observed Memorial Day by displaying the U.S. flag. Memorial Day is the only designated half-staff holiday that requires the flag to be raised to full-staff by midday, a tradition honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country.
CAI believes all Americans should have the opportunity to display the U.S. flag. In July 2006, Congress passed the Freedom to Display the American Flag Act, which says “a condominium association, cooperative association, or residential real estate management association may not adopt or enforce any policy, or enter into any agreement, that would restrict or prevent a member of the association from displaying the flag of the United States on residential property within the association with respect to which such member has a separate ownership interest or a right to exclusive possession or use.”
CAI supports the development of legally sound, fair, and equitable flag and sign (political, yard, etc.) rules and enforcement procedures in community associations. Political flags and signage are addressed by many state legislatures across the country. Click here for more information on CAI’s U.S. flag public policy, sign and flag policy, related state laws, and legislative tracking on this issue.
As America marks 250 years of independence, Memorial Day serves as a reminder that the nation is shaped by its founding ideals and the sacrifices of those who defended them. We honor those who served and the families and loved ones who carry their memory forward. This Memorial Day, CAI hopes you find a meaningful sense of community to remember, reflect, and honor those who served.
