Minnesota Unveils New State Flag After Years Of Public Criticism Over Old Design

Image via Minnesota State Emblems Redesign Commission

Minnesota has turned over a new leaf in its visual identity by introducing a fresh state flag, a decision fueled by the need for a design that resonates with 21st-century sensibilities and values.

The decision, made by an 11-1 vote by the State Emblems Redesign Committee, welcomes a simple yet symbolic flag. At its heart is the shape of Minnesota, presented in a deep shade of blue, and crowned with an eight-point star facing north. This star, a nod to Minnesota’s nickname as the North Star state, is paired with a block of light blue denoting the state’s abundant water resources, particularly the Mississippi River.

Image via Minnesota State Emblems Redesign Commission

Minnesota’s previous flag, adorned in royal blue with the state seal at its center, portrayed historical scenes that sparked ire over their representation. Amid the backdrop of a Native American man and a white farmer, its complex appearance included emblems of agriculture, defense, and the state’s motto in French.

Although rich in detail, the former look was criticized for being too cluttered and for its alienating portrayal of Native Americans. These concerns led to the drive for a redesigned flag that would resonate with contemporary Minnesota and its diverse population.

The redesigned flag is a distilled version of 24-year-old Luverne resident Andrew Prekker’s vision, which was blue, white, and green, representing water, snow, and land.

Andrew Prekker’s proposed flag (left), which included the state’s shape and a white North Star next to a white, green, and blue stripe representing snow, land, and the state’s waters. The official design (right) is a distilled version of it. Images via Minnesota State Emblems Redesign Commission

Submissions from the public that made it to the shortlist, but were eventually scrapped. Images via Minnesota State Emblems Redesign Commission

Prekker’s proposal emerged victorious after months of public input and thousands of submissions. The final look aims to reflect Minnesota’s identity and values in a clear, unfussy manner.

This is officially going to be our new Minnesota flag and I cannot be more proud of it. As someone who has spoken endlessly about this topic for *years* I couldn’t have dreamed of a new flag this great! #newmnflag pic.twitter.com/mlAUPf27b2

— Joseph Hillenbrand (@joeyeatsfridays) December 19, 2023

Luis Fitch, the commission chair, emphasized the need for a branding that would stand the test of time, be easily recognizable, and embody Minnesota’s distinct character.

Devoid of its predecessor’s disarray and controversial imagery, the new flag is a step toward inclusivity, acknowledging the state’s Indigenous communities and diverse population with dignity and respect.

“The last few days have been surreal for me. Very few things make me speechless in life, but this is one of those moments where it’s hard to express the sheer gratitude and amazement I’ve felt at this whole opportunity,” expresses the designer. 

Image via Minnesota State Emblems Redesign Commission

“It’s such a rare privilege to be able to contribute to our state’s history in such a special way like this,” Prekker reiterates.

“It is my greatest hope that this new flag can finally represent our state and all its people properly. That every Minnesotan of every background—including the Indigenous communities and tribal nations who’ve been historically excluded—can look up at our flag with pride and honor, and see themselves within it.”

Experts believe that this revamp could significantly elevate Minnesota’s flag ranking among the states, potentially placing it in the top 10 for its distinctiveness and meaningfulness.

[via Washington Post, CNN, New York Times, MPR News, Star Tribune, images via Minnesota State Emblems Redesign Commission]