Flags at Walt Disney World Resort were observed flying at half-staff yesterday, drawing attention from both guests and online communities. The move comes amid a period of official mourning in Florida after the assassination of Christian conservative public figure Charlie Kirk.
The primary news element came directly from the state: “I hereby direct the flags of the United States and the State of Florida to be flown at half-staff at all local and state buildings, installations, and grounds throughout the State of Florida immediately until sunset on Sunday, September 14, 2025,” Governor Ron DeSantis’ official directive stated, instituting a formal period of mourning across the state.
A Directive from DeSantis and Trump
The timing of the order has sparked discussion online, as it coincides with the annual September 11 anniversary. Many social media users pointed out the dual significance, with one fan noting: “It’s both. Our commander in chief ordered it for all flags, so it happened and should remain at half staff through at least Sunday.” Observers have interpreted the lowered flags at Walt Disney World as a visible recognition of Kirk’s death in addition to the traditional 9/11 commemoration.
While the directive ensures that flags on government and state-affiliated properties comply, questions remain about how private entities within the resort will respond. Disney has not issued any official comment regarding the lowered flags or the possible acknowledgment of Kirk’s passing during the weekend.
It’s both. Our commander in chief ordered it for all flags, so it happened and should remain at half staff through at least Sunday.
— David (@cashmir316) September 12, 2025
A Polarizing Figure
It is important to note that Charlie Kirk was a polarizing figure during his lifetime, which has led some to speculate that Disney might refrain from formally honoring him beyond the mandated flag protocol. “It remains unclear if private entities within the resort…will continue to fly their flags at half-staff through sunset today, in line with the governor’s order,” observers pointed out, highlighting ongoing uncertainty.
The act of lowering flags as a symbol of mourning has a longstanding history in the United States, signaling respect for deceased figures or solemn anniversaries. Florida’s directive ensures that both the legacy of Charlie Kirk and the remembrance of 9/11 are publicly recognized across the state.
As the weekend continues, attention will remain on Walt Disney World Resort and other key locations to see whether flags will remain lowered through sunset as ordered. Guests and social media communities alike are watching closely, interpreting the gesture in different ways amid the ongoing discussions surrounding its significance.
It’s Sept 11, it’s in commemoration of Sept 11, 2001. It has nothing to do with Charlie Kirk. Did everyone forget about the World Trade Center?