HGTV's Suggestion To Turn An American Flag Into A Tablecloth Receives Backlash

We love HGTV so much that we almost didn't want to mention this misstep, especially on Flag Day... but the network was slammed earlier this week when they suggested turning an American flag into a tablecloth for an online segment called “Classic Fourth of July Table Setting Ideas.” After hundreds of angry viewers responded by calling this an act of anti-patriotism and disrespectful to the military, the entertaining idea was removed from the site.

HGTV took to their Facebook page to post the following apology on Wednesday:

“This was a regrettable use of our flag and it never should have happened. We sincerely apologize and have removed the post from our website. We want to assure our fans that HGTV is proud of the American flag and everything it symbolizes for our people.”

Although the idea of draping this symbol on a picnic table is technically against the U.S. flag code, No More Mister Nice Blog brings up the argument that lots of stars and stripes merchandise from our favorite retailers like Pottery Barn are meant to salute, not insult our country.

"Are people violating the rules for proper display of the American flag when they put it on a table? Maybe they are, and maybe that offends a lot of people who love the flag and the country -- but it sure looks as if the violators love the flag and the country, too. And the companies that recommend this are also suggesting it as a way of showing patriotism. So chill the hell out, please."

We see nothing wrong with celebrating Flag Day with some red, white and blue. Just please, please don't use an actual flag. Why not try one of these easy patriotic crafts instead?

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