PURPOSE OF THIS POLICY

Colorado State University flies the flags of the United States of America, the State of Colorado, and Colorado State University in several places on its campuses. The purpose of this policy is to establish the protocols and practices for displaying these flags that reflect both laws and traditions. In addition, Colorado law imposes certain requirements upon the institution with respect to the display of the U.S. and Colorado flags. The purpose of this policy is to observe these laws and traditions. 

POLICY STATEMENT

Colorado State University recognizes the flag of the United States of America as a living symbol of our national heritage, demonstrating respect for our nation and its people and providing the foundation upon which our institution functions. It shall be displayed by the University with respect according to customs and traditions, and any report of misuse or mutilation may be investigated in accordance with applicable laws.

In addition, Colorado law requires that the University have and maintain a suitable flagstaff on which the flags of the United States and the State of Colorado are flown, that these flags be of the same size, and that the Colorado flag be flown directly below the U.S. flag when they are flown on the same flagstaff. 

POLICY PROVISIONS

1. The Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) and CSU Police Department are responsible for raising and lowering the flag for daily display and special ceremonies at the university's flagpole (Center and University Avenue). Questions or complaints regarding the customs and traditions of raising and lowering the flag (to full and half-staff), storing, folding and replacement, lighting, and flag standards should be directed to the ROTC.
2. The rules and customs for displaying the United States flag were adopted by an act of Congress and are found in 4 U.S. Code §§ 1-10. A summary of the rules for display of the flag indoors, with other flags and other standards of respect are located on the Etiquette pages of the website of the National Flag Foundation. The University will adhere to these rules and standards.
3. The flags of the United States and/or the state of Colorado are flown at half-staff during periods of mourning, when a formal order is given by the Governor. The Governor’s order will be relayed to the ROTC and/or the CSU Police Department to lower the flag or flags.
4. Reports of misuse, misrepresentation or mutilation of the US flag, state flag or a foreign flag should be referred to the CSU Police Department to investigate whether a violation of criminal laws has occurred (C.R.S. § 18-11-204 - 205).
5. The Lory Student Center is responsible for the flags in the Sutherland Community Garden on the west side of the LSC, including the United States flag, the Colorado state flag, and the Colorado State University flag. The LSC will adhere to the official laws, rules and customs for displaying the United States flag and the Colorado state flag. With regard to the Colorado State University flag, tradition has established for the flag to be lowered at mast half- upon the passing away of a student, after which the Associated Students of Colorado State University present the flag to family members.

REFERENCES

• 4 U.S.C. §§, 1-10
• National Flag Foundation, Etiquette web page
• C.R.S.§27-91-108, Display of Flags
• C.R.S.§18-11-204, Mutilation - contempt of flag - penalty
• C.R.S.§18-11-205, Unlawful to display flag - exceptions

APPROVALS

Approved 2009 by Vice President for Administrative Services

Revision approved November 5, 2018 by Lynn Johnson, Vice President for University Operations