Downtown Santa Barbara, which manages the State Street flag program, wishes to express its heartfelt condolences to everyone affected by the recent conflicts in the Middle East.

The State Street flag program is an initiative that rotates several times monthly to highlight and support an array of nonprofits within the community. The flags are scheduled up to a year in advance to ensure the program can spotlight organizations that make a positive impact in the community.

It is essential to clarify that the Jewish Federation flags, which are currently displayed on State Street, were scheduled well before the conflict in Gaza began, Downtown Santa Barbara said. The flags are not a response or statement about, war but rather a part of the group’s longstanding commitment to showcasing various nonprofits and community organizations.

Downtown Santa Barbara is committed to promoting unity and diversity within the community. It believes that, especially during challenging times, it is crucial to stand together in solidarity, offering support and understanding to all who are affected.

The Downtown Organization program features flags from more than 45 nonprofit groups, including Independent Living Resource Center, Special Olympics, CALM, and Scholarship Foundation of Santa Barbara.

To learn more about the State Street nonprofit flag program or apply to participate, visit downtownsb.org.

Downtown Santa Barbara extends its deepest sympathies to those affected by the conflict and stands with the local community and shared humanity as a symbol of hope, strength, peace and unity.

Downtown Santa Barbara serves as an advocate for the stakeholders of historic Downtown Santa Barbara, with more than 1,400 members. For more, visit www.DowntownSB.org.