The university has received a number of questions about the defacing of an American flag in front of the Howard H. Baker Jr. Center for Public Policy.
We share in the concern our community has expressed about this incident. Our country’s flag is a symbol of freedom, liberty, and justice and should be treated with dignity and respect.
UTPD was made aware of the incident early Wednesday morning. Unfortunately, no witnesses have come forward with enough information to aid an investigation. We encourage anyone with knowledge about this incident to call UT Police at 865-974-3114.
We are working with a local Boy Scout troop that decommissions flags as part of their community service and will ensure the flag is disposed of properly and honorably.