General Provisions (GGP) — Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Statutes in effect as of October 1, 2026.
Subtitle 1. State Seal
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-101 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 1. State Seal
§ 7–101LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Great Seal of Maryland is the State seal.
(b)
The reverse of the State seal shall be used officially.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-102 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 1. State Seal
§ 7–102LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
The obverse of the Great Seal of Maryland depicts:
(i)
an equestrian figure of the Lord Proprietary arrayed in complete armor and holding a drawn sword;
(ii)
a horse wearing caparisons adorned with the family coat of arms for Lord Baltimore; and
(iii)
on the ground below the equestrian figure, a sparse growth of grass on sandy soil and a few small blue and yellow flowers.
(2)
The circle surrounding the obverse of the Great Seal of Maryland contains the Latin inscription “Caecilius Absolutus Dominus Terrae Mariae et Avaloniae Baro de Baltemore”, which means “Cecil Absolute Lord of Maryland and Avalon Baron of Baltimore”, referring to Lord Baltimore’s first settlement in the new world, on the Avalon Peninsula of Newfoundland.
(b)
(1)
The reverse of the Great Seal of Maryland depicts:
(i)
the family coat of arms for Lord Baltimore, as described in paragraph (2) of this subsection;
(ii)
an Earl’s coronet placed above the shield indicating George Calvert’s status as an earl or a count palatine in Maryland, though only a baron in England;
(iii)
above the Earl’s coronet, a helmet set full–faced;
(iv)
above the helmet, the Calvert crest, which consists of two pennons, or pennants, supported by gules (red) staffs, issuing from the ducal coronet:
(1)
the dexter (right) pennon, of or (gold); and
(2)
the other pennon, of sable (black);
(v)
a plowman wearing a high–crowned, broad–brimmed beaver hat and holding one side of the shield with his left hand and a spade in his right hand;
(vi)
a fisherman wearing a knitted cap somewhat resembling a stocking cap and holding one side of the shield with his right hand and in his left hand a fish that is not specific to any species; and
(vii)
at the feet of the plowman and fisherman, a ribbon containing, in Italian, the Calvert family motto, “Fatti maschii parole femine”, which generally means “Strong deeds, gentle words”.
(2)
(i)
The family coat of arms for Lord Baltimore is divided into quarters.
(ii)
The first and fourth quarters:
(1)
appear in the top–left and bottom–right quarters;
(2)
represent the coat of arms of the Calvert family; and
(3)
are a paly of six pieces, or (gold) and sable (black), and a bend dexter (right diagonal band) counterchanged, so that they consist of six alternating gold and black vertical bars with a diagonal band on which the colors are reversed.
(iii)
The second and third quarters:
(1)
appear in the top–right and bottom–left quarters;
(2)
show the coat of arms of the Crossland family, which Cecil Calvert inherited from his grandmother, Alicia, wife of Leonard Calvert, the father of George Calvert, the first Lord Baltimore; and
(3)
are quartered argent (silver) and gules (red), a cross bottony counterchanged, so that they consist of a quartered field of silver and red, charged with a cross bottony that has arms terminating in a button or a three–leaf clover and opposite coloring.
(3)
Behind and surrounding the depiction described in paragraph (1) of this subsection are:
(i)
an ermine–lined mantle;
(ii)
a circle around the seal containing the words “Scuto bonae voluntatis tuae coronasti nos”, meaning “With favor wilt thou compass us as with a shield” (Psalm 5:12); and
(iii)
the date 1632, the year the Maryland charter was granted.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-103 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 1. State Seal
§ 7–103LinkCopy Citation
The Secretary of State shall have custody of the State seal.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-104 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 1. State Seal
§ 7–104LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
The Governor may have the State seal:
(i)
to affix it to a certified copy of a law or resolution;
(ii)
to affix it to a communication from the State to the United States, another state, or a foreign country; or
(iii)
as needed for any other purpose provided by law.
(2)
Unless the Governor signs the document, the Governor may not affix the State seal to a document or allow the State seal to be affixed to a document issued by the Executive Branch of the State government.
(b)
The Secretary of the Senate and the Chief Clerk of the House may have the State seal to affix it to a bill as required by law.
Subtitle 2. Flags
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-201 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 2. Flags
§ 7–201LinkCopy Citation
The Maryland flag is the State flag.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-202 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 2. Flags
§ 7–202LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The State flag is divided into quarters.
(b)
The first and fourth quarters are a paly of six pieces, or (gold) and sable (black), and a bend dexter (right diagonal band) counterchanged, so that they consist of six alternating gold and black vertical bars with a diagonal band on which the colors are reversed.
(c)
The second and third quarters are quartered argent (white) and gules (red), a cross bottony counterchanged, so that they consist of a quartered field of white and red, charged with a Greek cross that has arms terminating in trefoils and opposite coloring so that red is on the white quarters and white is on the red quarters, as represented on the escutcheon of the State seal.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-203 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 2. Flags
§ 7–203LinkCopy Citation
Only a gold cross bottony may be used as an ornament on the top of a flagstaff that carries the State flag.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-204 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 2. Flags
§ 7–204LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The flag of the United States and the State flag shall be flown from the State House as provided in this section.
(b)
When the General Assembly is in session, the flag of the United States and the State flag shall be flown continuously.
(c)
When the General Assembly is not in session, the flag of the United States and the State flag shall be flown:
(1)
continuously on each day that the Governor designates as a public occasion; and
(2)
between sunrise and sunset on any other day when the weather permits.
(d)
The State flag shall be flown with the black stripe on the diagonal bands of the first quarter at the top of the flagstaff, as shown in the illustration of the State flag in “Chronicles of Colonial Maryland”.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-205 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 2. Flags
§ 7–205LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2)
“Flag to honor and remember members of the armed forces who died in the line of duty” means:
(i)
a flag created by Honor and Remember, Inc.; or
(ii)
the flag designated by the United States Congress as the official symbol to honor and remember members of the armed forces who died in the line of duty.
(3)
“POW/MIA flag” means the Prisoners of War/Missing in Action (POW/MIA) flag of the National League of Families of American Prisoners and Missing in Southeast Asia.
(b)
(1)
Subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, each year, the POW/MIA flag and a flag to honor and remember members of the armed forces who died in the line of duty shall be flown on the State House grounds on:
(i)
the third Saturday in May, for Armed Forces Day;
(ii)
May 30, for Memorial Day;
(iii)
the day that the United States Congress designates for the observance of Memorial Day, if other than May 30;
(iv)
the Saturday and Sunday that are closest to May 30, unless the United States Congress designates another day for the observance of Memorial Day, in which case, the Saturday and Sunday that are closest to the day designated by the United States Congress;
(v)
July 4, for Independence Day;
(vi)
the third Friday in September, for POW/MIA Recognition Day;
(vii)
November 11, for Veterans’ Day;
(viii)
the day that the United States Congress designates for the observance of Veterans’ Day, if other than November 11; and
(ix)
the Saturday and Sunday that are closest to November 11, unless the United States Congress designates another day for the observance of Veterans’ Day, in which case, the Saturday and Sunday that are closest to the day designated by the United States Congress.
(2)
If the United States Congress designates a flag as the official symbol to honor and remember members of the armed forces who died in the line of duty, the flag designated by Congress instead of the flag created by Honor and Remember, Inc., shall be flown in accordance with paragraph (1) of this subsection.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-206 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 2. Flags
§ 7–206LinkCopy Citation
A flag of the United States or a State flag that is displayed on State property and purchased with State money must be manufactured in the United States.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-207 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 2. Flags
§ 7–207LinkCopy Citation
(a)
(1)
In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2)
“Eligible decedent” means:
(i)
an employee of the State or any political subdivision who died as a result of:
(1)
an accidental injury that arose out of and in the course of employment with the State or political subdivision; or
(2)
an injury caused by a willful or negligent act of a third person, directed against the employee in the course of employment with the State or political subdivision;
(ii)
a current or former constitutional officer, as defined in § 29–305 of the State Personnel and Pensions Article;
(iii)
a current or former member of the General Assembly;
(iv)
a current or former Governor of the State;
(v)
a judge, as defined in § 1–101 of the Courts Article;
(vi)
an individual who currently holds or formerly held any of the positions identified in § 29–304 of the State Personnel and Pensions Article; or
(vii)
any other individual whom the Governor designates through an executive order.
(3)
“Political subdivision” has the meaning stated in § 4–101 of this article.
(4)
“Wholly produced in the United States” means a flag that contains only:
(i)
materials and components that are grown, manufactured, or created entirely in the United States;
(ii)
processing components, including spinning, weaving, dyeing, and finishing, that are performed entirely in the United States; and
(iii)
materials that have been manufactured and assembled entirely in the United States.
(b)
(1)
On request, the Secretary of State shall furnish a State flag to drape the casket of an eligible decedent.
(2)
The Secretary of State shall adopt regulations establishing a process to:
(i)
submit a request under paragraph (1) of this subsection; and
(ii)
verify that a request under paragraph (1) of this subsection is being made on behalf of an eligible decedent.
(c)
(1)
After the burial of an eligible decedent, the flag shall be:
(i)
claimed by and provided to the eligible decedent’s next of kin; or
(ii)
provided to a close friend or an associate, if it is not claimed by the eligible decedent’s next of kin.
(2)
Only one flag may be provided for the death of an eligible decedent under this section.
(d)
(1)
Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, the Secretary of State may not procure any flag under this section unless it is wholly produced in the United States.
(2)
The Secretary of State may waive the requirement under paragraph (1) of this subsection if it cannot be met reasonably.
Subtitle 3. Additional Emblems; Designations
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-301 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 3. Additional Emblems; Designations
§ 7–301LinkCopy Citation
The Baltimore Oriole (Icterus galbula) is the State bird.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-302 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 3. Additional Emblems; Designations
§ 7–302LinkCopy Citation
The calico cat is the State cat.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-303 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 3. Additional Emblems; Designations
§ 7–303LinkCopy Citation
The Maryland Blue Crab (Callinectes sapidus) is the State crustacean.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-304 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 3. Additional Emblems; Designations
§ 7–304LinkCopy Citation
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is the State dog.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-305 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 3. Additional Emblems; Designations
§ 7–305LinkCopy Citation
The striped bass or rockfish (Morone saxatilis) is the State fish.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-306 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 3. Additional Emblems; Designations
§ 7–306LinkCopy Citation
The Black–Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) is the State flower.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-307 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 3. Additional Emblems; Designations
§ 7–307LinkCopy Citation
The thoroughbred horse is the State horse.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-308 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 3. Additional Emblems; Designations
§ 7–308LinkCopy Citation
The Baltimore Checkerspot Butterfly (Euphydryas phaeton) is the State insect.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-309 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 3. Additional Emblems; Designations
§ 7–309LinkCopy Citation
The diamondback terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin) is the State reptile.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-310 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 3. Additional Emblems; Designations
§ 7–310LinkCopy Citation
The megalodon (Otodus megalodon) is the State shark.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-311 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 3. Additional Emblems; Designations
§ 7–311LinkCopy Citation
The white oak (Quercus alba) is the State tree.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-313 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 3. Additional Emblems; Designations
§ 7–313LinkCopy Citation
The original Maryland orange crush is the State cocktail.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-314 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 3. Additional Emblems; Designations
§ 7–314LinkCopy Citation
Smith Island cake is the State dessert.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-315 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 3. Additional Emblems; Designations
§ 7–315LinkCopy Citation
Milk is the State drink.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-316 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 3. Additional Emblems; Designations
§ 7–316LinkCopy Citation
Square dancing is the State folk dance.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-317 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 3. Additional Emblems; Designations
§ 7–317LinkCopy Citation
The diamondback terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin) is the official mascot of the University of Maryland, College Park Campus.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-318 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 3. Additional Emblems; Designations
§ 7–318LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Governor may designate a citizen of the State as its Poet Laureate.
(b)
(1)
The Poet Laureate:
(i)
may not receive compensation as Poet Laureate; but
(ii)
subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, is entitled to reimbursement for any expenses incurred in the performance of duties as Poet Laureate.
(2)
Reimbursement under this subsection:
(i)
shall be paid from the General Emergency Fund of the Board of Public Works; and
(ii)
may not exceed $1,000 in any 1 fiscal year.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-319 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 3. Additional Emblems; Designations
§ 7–319LinkCopy Citation
Maryland Rye or Maryland Rye Whiskey is the State spirit.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-320 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 3. Additional Emblems; Designations
§ 7–320LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Center Stage in Baltimore City is the State theater.
(b)
Olney Theatre in Montgomery County is the State summer theater.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-322 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 3. Additional Emblems; Designations
§ 7–322LinkCopy Citation
The Astrodon johnstoni is the State dinosaur.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-323 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 3. Additional Emblems; Designations
§ 7–323LinkCopy Citation
The Ecphora gardnerae gardnerae (Wilson) is the State fossil shell.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-324 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 3. Additional Emblems; Designations
§ 7–324LinkCopy Citation
The Patuxent River stone is the State gem.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-325 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 3. Additional Emblems; Designations
§ 7–325LinkCopy Citation
Chromite is the State mineral.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-326 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 3. Additional Emblems; Designations
§ 7–326LinkCopy Citation
The Natural History Society of Maryland is the State natural sciences museum.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-326.1 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 3. Additional Emblems; Designations
§ 7–326.1LinkCopy Citation
The Calvert Marine Museum is the State paleontology collection and research center.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-327 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 3. Additional Emblems; Designations
§ 7–327LinkCopy Citation
The skipjack is the State boat.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-328 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 3. Additional Emblems; Designations
§ 7–328LinkCopy Citation
Walking is the State exercise.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-329 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 3. Additional Emblems; Designations
§ 7–329LinkCopy Citation
(a)
Jousting is the State sport.
(b)
Lacrosse is the State team sport.
Subtitle 4. Commemorative Days
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-401 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 4. Commemorative Days
§ 7–401LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Governor annually shall proclaim January 13 as Korean American Day.
(b)
The proclamation shall urge educational and cultural organizations to observe Korean American Day properly with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-402 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 4. Commemorative Days
§ 7–402LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Governor annually shall proclaim the day designated as new year on the Asian lunar calendar as Asian Lunar New Year Day.
(b)
Asian Lunar New Year Day is in recognition of the economic and cultural contributions of the many Marylanders for whom the lunar new year holds special significance.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-403 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 4. Commemorative Days
§ 7–403LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Governor annually shall proclaim January 27 as Maryland Holocaust Remembrance Day.
(b)
The proclamation shall declare Maryland Holocaust Remembrance Day:
(1)
a day of reflection, recollection, and determination for Maryland families, educators, religious communities, political bodies, and media to remember the human tragedy that is the Holocaust; and
(2)
a pledge to spread the lessons and the reality of the Holocaust to future generations in an effort to ensure that we never forget and bear witness to the mass slaughter of human beings as a consequence of prejudice, bigotry, ignorance, and hate.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-404 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 4. Commemorative Days
§ 7–404LinkCopy Citation
The Governor annually shall proclaim March 9 as 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion Day in recognition of the service of the women of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion during World War II.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-405 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 4. Commemorative Days
§ 7–405LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Governor annually shall proclaim the fourth Thursday in March as Tuskegee Airmen Commemoration Day.
(b)
The proclamation shall urge educational and cultural organizations to observe Tuskegee Airmen Commemoration Day through appropriate and informative programs and activities.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-406 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 4. Commemorative Days
§ 7–406LinkCopy Citation
March 30 shall be Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day in recognition of the service and sacrifice of Vietnam veterans.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-407 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 4. Commemorative Days
§ 7–407LinkCopy Citation
The Governor annually shall:
(1)
proclaim April 3 as Crime Victim and Advocate Commemorative Day to honor the individuals in the State who have become crime victims and the advocates who serve those victims; and
(2)
take appropriate steps to publicize Crime Victim and Advocate Commemorative Day.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-408 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 4. Commemorative Days
§ 7–408LinkCopy Citation
The Governor annually shall proclaim April 13 as John Hanson’s birthday and dedicate April 13 to him.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-409 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 4. Commemorative Days
§ 7–409LinkCopy Citation
The Governor annually shall proclaim April 16 as National Healthcare Decisions Day.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-410 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 4. Commemorative Days
§ 7–410LinkCopy Citation
The Governor annually shall proclaim May 1 as Law Day U.S.A.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-411 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 4. Commemorative Days
§ 7–411LinkCopy Citation
The Governor annually shall proclaim the second Thursday in May as Maryland Centenarians Day in recognition of the lives of the State’s citizens who have reached the landmark age of 100 years.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-412 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 4. Commemorative Days
§ 7–412LinkCopy Citation
The Governor annually shall proclaim the second Saturday in May as Negro Baseball League Day.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-413 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 4. Commemorative Days
§ 7–413LinkCopy Citation
The Governor annually shall issue a proclamation encouraging the media, government units, business and recreational facilities, and citizens of the State to unite in remembrance and commemorate the heroic acts and efforts of Marylanders who have served and died in the United States armed forces by observing a moment of silence at 3 p.m. on Memorial Day.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-414 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 4. Commemorative Days
§ 7–414LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Governor annually shall proclaim the first Sunday in June as the day to honor the fire, rescue, and emergency services workers of the State who made the ultimate sacrifice in the performance of their duties.
(b)
The Governor annually shall order the State flag to be flown at half–staff on the first Sunday in June.
(c)
On the first Sunday in June each year, memorial plaques containing the names of the fire, rescue, and emergency services workers who made the ultimate sacrifice shall be placed on the Maryland Fire–Rescue Services Memorial in the City of Annapolis by the Maryland Fire–Rescue Services Memorial Foundation, Inc.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-415 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 4. Commemorative Days
§ 7–415LinkCopy Citation
The Governor annually shall proclaim June 20 as Maryland Charter Day.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-416 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 4. Commemorative Days
§ 7–416LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Governor annually shall proclaim July 2 as Thurgood Marshall Day.
(b)
The proclamation shall urge educational and cultural organizations to observe Thurgood Marshall Day properly.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-417.1 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 4. Commemorative Days
§ 7–417.1LinkCopy Citation
The Governor annually shall proclaim October 1 as Purple Lights Night to honor the individuals in the State who are victims or suvivors of domestic violence and express support for the elimination of domestic violence in the State.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-418 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 4. Commemorative Days
§ 7–418LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Governor annually shall proclaim September 30 as Maryland Veterans Suicide Prevention Day.
(b)
The proclamation shall declare Maryland Veterans Suicide Prevention Day:
(1)
a day of reflection, recollection, and determination for Maryland veterans, service members, family members, and all Marylanders to remember the human tragedy that is associated with veteran suicide; and
(2)
a pledge to our veteran community to:
(i)
work to destigmatize mental health support;
(ii)
create more opportunities for those with mental health issues to speak freely and get the support they need; and
(iii)
encourage veterans to reach out for help.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-419 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 4. Commemorative Days
§ 7–419LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Governor annually shall proclaim October 2 as South Asian American Heritage Day.
(b)
The proclamation shall urge educational and cultural organizations to observe South Asian American Heritage Day properly with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-420 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 4. Commemorative Days
§ 7–420LinkCopy Citation
The Governor shall annually proclaim October 5 as Dashain Day, a festival originating in Nepal that celebrates and symbolizes victory of good over evil.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-421 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 4. Commemorative Days
§ 7–421LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Governor annually shall proclaim October 15 as Poetry Day in recognition of the cultural and human values of poetry and poetic expression.
(b)
The proclamation shall urge cultural, educational, patriotic, and religious organizations to observe Poetry Day properly.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-422 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 4. Commemorative Days
§ 7–422LinkCopy Citation
The Governor annually shall proclaim November 1 as Maryland Emancipation Day in recognition of the emancipation of the slaves in the State.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-423 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 4. Commemorative Days
§ 7–423LinkCopy Citation
The Governor annually shall proclaim December 17 as Annapolis Charter Day.
Subtitle 5. Commemorative Months
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-501 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 5. Commemorative Months
§ 7–501LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Governor annually shall proclaim the month of January as Muslim American Heritage Month in recognition of the contributions that Muslim Americans have made to the State.
(b)
The proclamation shall urge educational and cultural organizations to observe Muslim American Heritage Month properly with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-502 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 5. Commemorative Months
§ 7–502LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Governor annually shall proclaim the month of February as Black History Month in recognition of the historical contributions that Black Americans have made to the State.
(b)
The proclamation shall urge educational and cultural organizations to observe Black History Month properly with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-503 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 5. Commemorative Months
§ 7–503LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Governor annually shall proclaim the month of March as Irish–American Heritage Month in recognition of the contributions that Irish Americans have made to the State.
(b)
The proclamation shall urge educational and cultural organizations to observe Irish–American Heritage Month properly with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-504 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 5. Commemorative Months
§ 7–504LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Governor annually shall proclaim the month of March as Women’s History Month in recognition of the historical contributions that women have made to the State.
(b)
The proclamation shall urge educational and cultural organizations to observe Women’s History Month properly with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-505 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 5. Commemorative Months
§ 7–505LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Governor annually shall proclaim the month of May as Jewish American Heritage Month in recognition of the contributions that Jewish Americans have made to the State.
(b)
The proclamation shall urge educational and cultural organizations to observe Jewish American Heritage Month properly with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-506 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 5. Commemorative Months
§ 7–506LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Governor annually shall proclaim the month of August as Caribbean Heritage Month in recognition of the contributions that Caribbean Americans have made to the State.
(b)
The proclamation shall urge educational and cultural organizations to observe Caribbean Heritage Month properly with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-507 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 5. Commemorative Months
§ 7–507LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Governor annually shall proclaim the month from September 15 to October 15, both inclusive, as Hispanic Heritage Month in recognition of the contributions that Hispanic Americans have made to the State.
(b)
The proclamation shall urge educational and cultural organizations to observe Hispanic Heritage Month properly with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-508 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 5. Commemorative Months
§ 7–508LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Governor annually shall proclaim the month of October as German–American Heritage Month in recognition of the contributions that German Americans have made to the State.
(b)
The proclamation shall urge educational and cultural organizations to observe German–American Heritage Month properly with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-509 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 5. Commemorative Months
§ 7–509LinkCopy Citation
(a)
In recognition of the contributions that American Indians have made to the State, the Governor annually shall proclaim November as American Indian Heritage Month.
(b)
The proclamation shall urge educational and cultural organizations to observe American Indian Heritage Month properly with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.
Subtitle 6. Commemorative Weeks
Md. Code Ann., Gen. Prov. § 7-601 (2026)
Title 7. Emblems; Designations; Commemorative Days and Months
Subtitle 6. Commemorative Weeks
§ 7–601LinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Governor annually shall proclaim the second week in June as Chesapeake Bay Awareness Week.
(b)
The proclamation shall urge educational and environmental organizations, including the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay, the Choose Clean Water Coalition, and the Chesapeake Bay Commercial Fishermen’s Association, to observe Chesapeake Bay Awareness Week properly with appropriate events, activities, and programs designed to increase awareness of the importance of the Chesapeake Bay to the State, the region, and the United States.