Edward J. Markey, the Ranking Member from Massachusetts, has reached out to Kelly Loeffler, the U.S. Small Business Administrator, regarding the decision to display the “Appeal to Heaven” flag at the SBA’s headquarters during the Flag Day Ceremony on June 11, 2025. While recognizing the flag’s historical roots as a symbol from the Revolutionary War, Markey expresses concerns about its contemporary associations with extremist groups, particularly those involved in the January 6th Capitol attack and various far-right movements.
In his letter, Markey highlights the recent appropriation of the Appeal to Heaven flag by groups that challenge the legitimacy of democratic processes, especially those advocating for the unfounded claims surrounding the 2020 presidential election. He points out that the flag has been embraced by Christian nationalist factions and is frequently seen at events spearheaded by extremist entities like the Proud Boys.
Markey articulates that flying this flag in a federal context could send a troubling message and risks appearing to endorse ideologies that threaten democratic principles and foster division. He stresses the importance of maintaining federal institutions free from ideological biases, particularly those that can damage democracy and promote hate.
He emphasizes the SBA’s vital role in supporting a diverse range of small businesses and calls for a reaffirmation of nonpartisanship and inclusivity in the SBA’s public representations. To gain clarity on the rationale behind the flag’s display, Markey has requested specific information from the SBA by July 2, 2025, aiming to ensure the agency’s commitment to fostering unity rather than division in its public communications and actions.
This inquiry reflects a broader concern about how symbols can influence public perception and the importance of ensuring that government institutions represent all citizens equitably. The conversation invites ongoing reflection on the role of symbolism in politics and the obligations of federal agencies to uphold democratic values.