Almost 500 flags raise awareness of global pandemic
Apr 24, 2020, 10:36 AM
WEST JORDAN, Utah — Hundreds of flags are on display at Veterans Memorial Park, to show unity during the world-wide coronavirus pandemic.
Volunteers with the Colonial Flag Foundation and the city of West Jordan placed 480 flags at the park at 8083 South 1825 West over the last few days. The display goes through May 5, 2020.
The flags are of 180 countries and all 50 U.S. states currently affected by coronavirus. Additional flags US flags are there to honor first responders and healthcare professionals.
Organizers say the display will raise awareness about the global pandemic, and benefit the Utah Food Bank.
“The display is designed to allow visitors to get a visual representation of the tremendous impact coronavirus has had on the rest of the world, in hopes of giving our community a beautiful and healing experience, which is much-needed after being stuck at home for weeks,” said Paul Swenson with Colonial Flag Foundation in a news release.
The flags are placed 6 feet apart from the road in a symbol of social distancing. The display is free for people to drive or walk around.
There is an opportunity in conjunction with the display to donate online to the Utah Food Bank.
“The economic fallout from the Coronavirus will be felt for months to come, especially for the 374,000 Utahns who face hunger. We have seen the numbers of people in need of food assistance increase exponentially since this began,” said Ginette Bott, Utah Food Bank President and CEO. “Support from our community will ensure that we can continue to fight hunger statewide as more and more Utahns turn to us in need.”
How To Prevent the Spread of COVID-19Coronavirus
COVID-19 coronaviruses transmitted from person to person. It is a virus that is similar to the common cold and the flu. So, to prevent it from spreading:
- Wash hands frequently and thoroughly, with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds.
- Don’t touch your face.
- Keep children and those with compromised immune systems away from someone who is coughing or sneezing (in this instance, at least six feet)
- If there is an outbreak near you, practice social distancing (stay at home, instead of going to the movies, sports events, or other activities.)
- Get a flu shot.
Local resources
Utah’s Coronavirus Information
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Utah Coronavirus Information Line – 1-800-456-7707
National Resources
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Commonly asked questions, World Health Organization
