Mayor Urges Baltimore to Wear Patriotic Colors to Celebrate Star Spangled Spectacular

BALTIMORE, Md. (June 30, 2014)—Today, Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake announced Red, White, and Blue Mondays. Baltimore City employees are urged to don patriotic colors each Monday throughout the summer (beginning Monday, July 7) in support of Star-Spangled Summer—a celebration of the 200th anniversary of America's national anthem.

"For Baltimore City natives and residents, our place in the history of the United States—particularly, our role in the War of 1812—is a point of pride," said Mayor Rawlings-Blake. "The defense of our homeland and the birth of our national anthem are remarkable stories. As we celebrate these milestones, we will express our devotion—not only for our city, but for our nation and its long standing history—by proudly wearing the colors of our Star-Spangled Banner each Monday."

Baltimore residents and businesses are also encouraged to participate, as Baltimore City prepares for the Star-Spangled Spectacular, scheduled for September 10 – 16. Red, White, and Blue Mondays will not apply to Baltimore City employees who must wear uniforms.

Baltimore City played a pivotal role during the War of 1812, particularly in 1814 after British forces captured and burned Washington, DC and proceeded north toward Baltimore. The British planned to gain a foothold in Baltimore—attacking by land at North Point and by sea at Fort McHenry, which stood in defense of the Baltimore Harbor. It was during their bombardment of Fort McHenry that Francis Scott Key, a Maryland-born attorney, was inspired to write the words that would become "The Star-Spangled Banner," America's national anthem.

Star-Spangled Summer marks the final months of Star-Spangled 200, Maryland's multi-year commemoration of the bicentennial of the War of 1812 and of Maryland's unique contributions to the defense and heritage of the nation. Events marking the commemoration are scheduled to take place throughout the state. For more information, visit www.starspangled200.com.