HGTV, the cable channel devoted to home remodeling and interior design, apologized today for a feature on its website that recommended the use of an American flag as a tablecloth for Independence Day celebrations.
“Drape a large American flag over the table as a bright and festive table runner,” HGTV advised. “Use a nylon flag so spills can be easily wiped off and the flag can later be hung with pride on a flag pole.”
Actual flags are not recommended to be used in such a manner, according to Joe March, a spokesman for the American Legion.
“The flag of the United States is designed to be flown and respected as the symbol of our country,” he told Fox News. “That very same flag is used to cover the caskets of our soldiers, sailors and Marines who have been killed in battle. You would not obviously want to take that and use that as a table cloth.”
After being criticized by many viewers for the article, HGTV removed it and issued an apology on its Facebook page:
"HGTV Fans, regarding the recent article that appeared on our website ... This was a regrettable use of our flag and it never should have happened," the network said. "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."
Instead of recommending the use of a flag as a tablecloth, HGTV ought to have directed viewers to one of the many flag-inspired tablecloths that are for sale in many stores and on the internet.
