The state of Minnesota is set to unveil a new official flag this spring, replacing the old flag that depicted a Native American figure, which some critics argued was racist. The new flag design, adopted in December, was chosen by a committee that reviewed over 2,600 proposals from the public. The design features two blue shapes with a white star, representing the state of Minnesota and its abundant waters. It also includes an eight-pointed North Star, symbolizing the state’s motto as the North Star State.
The new flag is expected to receive approval from the Legislature on May 11, along with a new state seal. Minnesota is not the only state undergoing flag redesigns, as Utah, Mississippi, Michigan, Illinois, and Maine have also embarked on similar efforts. These changes reflect a broader trend of states reevaluating their flags and updating them to better represent their values and history.
The committee responsible for choosing the new Minnesota flag made some modifications to the original design submitted by Andrew Prekker, including replacing the original light blue, white, and green stripes with a solid light blue field. The significance of the light blue area is open to interpretation, with some suggesting it represents the Mississippi River, which originates in Minnesota. The Dakota name for Minnesota, “Mni Sóta Makoce,” meaning “where the water meets the sky,” will also be featured on the new state seal.
While the new flag has received criticism for being boring or a wasteful change, supporters are hopeful that it will grow on people over time. One Indigenous graphic designer has already started selling T-shirts featuring the new design, emphasizing that the flag is no longer considered racist.
Several other states, including Utah, Mississippi, Michigan, Illinois, and Maine, are also in the process of or considering flag changes. Utah recently approved a design featuring a beehive, symbolizing prosperity. Mississippi replaced its Confederate-themed flag with one featuring a magnolia. Michigan is simplifying its flag design, while Illinois is initiating a process to select potential flag designs. In Maine, residents are advocating for a retro version featuring a simple pine tree and a blue north star.
Overall, the redesign of Minnesota’s state flag aligns with a nationwide movement to update and improve state flags to better represent the values and history of each state. The new flag is expected to become official this spring, alongside a new state seal.
