Here's how the black, white, and blue American flag — inspired by the phrase "thin blue line" — came to be wrought with so much controversy.

A controversial symbol shows up at SLCC’s safety office, and then disappears Some see the Thin Blue Line flag as support for law enforcement; others note it has been taken up by white nationalists.

The “Thin Blue Line” flag resembles a U.S. flag but has a blue stripe. It is considered a sign of support for police but has also been criticized as a symbol of white supremacy.

The Madeira Police Department has four police cruisers with vinyl wraps showing the Thin Blue Line flag. Community leaders are now debating whether that is appropriate on a city vehicle.