By the Coral Gables Gazette editorial board

The Coral Gables City Commission’s decision to install flagpoles and American flags across the city’s parks deserves support. It is a gesture of civic pride — one that connects residents through shared ideals and honors the values of service, unity and remembrance. In an age when symbols are often debated or distorted, this simple act reaffirms something enduring: the quiet dignity of belonging to something larger than oneself.

Yet if Coral Gables is to fly flags at its parks, it should fly all the flags that define its civic identity. Alongside the United States flag, the banners of the State of Florida and the City of Coral Gables should also rise. Together, they would tell the fuller story of who we are — a city of layered heritage and purpose, shaped by state history, bound by national principles and animated by a local vision of beauty and good governance.

The American flag unites us under the idea of one nation. The Florida flag grounds us in a shared landscape and tradition. And the Coral Gables flag, with its crest evoking the City Beautiful ideals and architectural grace, speaks to our unique place in that hierarchy of belonging.

City Hall already models this spirit, with the U.S. and Coral Gables flags flying side by side outside its doors, and all three — including the Florida flag — displayed in the Commission Chamber and other public buildings. Extending that display into the city’s parks would complete the circle, bringing the symbols of our civic life from official halls into the spaces where families gather and community breathes.

The conversation at the Oct. 28 commission meeting captured that spirit. Mayor Vince Lago introduced the initiative as an act of visibility and respect, noting that each park’s flag should be cared for and well-lit. Vice Mayor Rhonda Anderson raised thoughtful concerns about lightning safety and design proportion. Assistant City Manager Carolina Vester outlined a deliberate, phased approach — one that emphasizes placement, maintenance, and aesthetics. The idea was handled with the same care that should define the city’s built environment.

Adding two more flags would refine that work. The same solar lighting planned for the American flag can illuminate the state and city flags. The same sense of proportion and taste that guides the city’s architecture can ensure that each display fits its setting. And the same pride that animates the mayor’s gesture can be deepened by recognizing all levels of our civic identity.

Coral Gables was founded on the belief that form and meaning belong together — that a city’s design can reflect its soul. Flying all three flags would be a small act of design, but a significant act of meaning. It would show that patriotism and local pride are not competing loyalties but concentric ones, each enriching the other.

The American flag will always command the highest respect. But a city as thoughtful as Coral Gables should understand that symbols gain strength through context. Let our parks reflect that layered pride: the nation we serve, the state we call home and the city we build together.