The origins of the upside-down flag, or union down, came from ships at sea as a call to signal their distress, according to the Free Speech Center. When is Flag Day 2025? Flag Day June 14 every year.

An upside down American flag flies as hundreds gather at the Morristown municipal hall to rally for International Women's Day, Saturday, Mar. 8, 2025.

In Spence v.Washington, a 1974 Supreme Court decision, the court found that desecrating the flag, including flying it upside down as a symbol of protest, is protected speech under the First Amendment.

In Spence v.Washington, a 1974 Supreme Court decision, the court found that desecrating the flag, including flying it upside down as a symbol of protest, is protected speech under the First Amendment.

In Spence v.Washington, a 1974 Supreme Court decision, the court found that desecrating the flag, including flying it upside down as a symbol of protest, is protected speech under the First Amendment.