* “An upside down flag is a sign of distress … We’re in trouble ” says participant
BAKERSFIELD, California – This Fourth of July, American flags were intentionally flown upside down at Polo Park in northwest Bakersfield, signaling distress and protest. Traditionally, an upside-down flag is a sign of distress, and recently, it has been used to express the belief that the 2020 presidential election was stolen.
Following former President Donald Trump’s felony conviction, supporters displayed upside-down flags both online and in public. Despite the excessive heat and national tension, celebrants continued to attend Bakersfield’s annual July 4 parade.
Organizers of the flag demonstration said their tallest flag was flown upright out of respect. However, the inverted flags were meant as a far-right protest. KNZR conservative radio host Terry Maxwell, who spoke with 17 News, featured the main organizer anonymously on his show. Maxwell explained that doing something out of the ordinary, like flying the flags upside down, was meant to draw attention to their cause.
Stacy Blackburn, a participant, said, “An upside down flag is a sign of distress … We’re in trouble.” Blackburn emphasized that the state of the nation should concern all Americans, regardless of political affiliation. He shared a personal story about a friend who died by suicide after losing everything during turbulent times, highlighting his frustration with California’s current situation.
Approximately 50 to 60 people stopped by the demonstration early in the morning, organizers told 17 News. They clarified that their protest was not about elections or partisan politics but about their dissatisfaction with the current state of the nation and their desire for a new commander-in-chief, specifically Donald Trump.
The event flyer read, “We, the people of Kern County, intend to make a statement that we are tired of seeing the weaponization of government agencies that politicians have at their disposal. The United States was not designed with two tiers of justice.” Many attendees expressed concerns about media bias and government actions.
Each flag had a note from families or individuals explaining their reasons for displaying the flag upside down, focusing on perceived government agency weaponization. Supporters like Ken Zollinger emphasized the need for active defense of their beliefs, supporting the MAGA movement and calling for the protection of American values.
Music played at the event included the “Trump Song/MAGA Anthem,” with lyrics criticizing the media and political corruption, reinforcing the demonstrators’ sentiments.
