Patriotism is sewn into the fabric of American society from an early age. We’re taught to respect the flag in school, memorizing pledges that reinforce its significance. In my series Plague to Allegiance, I explore the pervasive role of the American flag in shaping national identity. The American flag doesn’t symbolize the same message it used to; America was founded on being a melting pot but is no longer accepted as one. This series focuses on the intersection between the flag’s traditional representation and its evolving presence in everyday, sometimes unexpected, spaces. Throughout this series, I aim to provoke questions about the forces that shape our perceptions of patriotism. Additionally, this series seeks to raise awareness about the contradictions in how the flag is treated—particularly when some of the most patriotic individuals knowingly defy the flag code, the very set of rules designed to preserve the flag’s symbolism and respect.