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Gov. Tim Walz has directed all flags at state and federal buildings in Minnesota to be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Friday, according to a press release. He has directed flags to fly at half staff on the 19th of every month through 2020 to remember, mourn and honor lives lost due to COVID-19.

“Thousands of Minnesotans have lost dear friends and close family members in the fight against COVID-19,” Walz said in the release. “Each life taken has been a heartbreaking tragedy for our state. In these challenging times, we must work together to slow the spread of this pandemic.”

Individuals, businesses and other organizations are also encouraged to join in lowering their flags to honor Minnesotans who have lost their lives to COVID-19 and their families.