As far as flags go, Minnesota’s state flag … has a lot going on. It’s a branding nightmare, critics say.
And then there’s the naked Indian, spear in hand, riding bareback on a horse toward the setting sun, under the gaze of a white farmer plowing his field, his rifle and powderhorn within reach. Some say that’s downright offensive, a diminution and glorification of a history that we now see differently than we did around 1858, when Minnesota and the nation waged war on Native Americans, and when the image was adopted as the state seal. (via: Twin Cities/Pioneer Press)
State Emblems Redesign Commission:
Develop and adopt a new design for the official state flag and the official state seal no later than January 1, 2024.
The Commission shall develop and adopt a new design for the official state seal and a new design for the official state flag. The designs must accurately and respectfully reflect Minnesota's shared history, resources, and diverse cultural communities. Symbols, emblems, or likenesses that represent only a single community or person, regardless of whether real or stylized, may not be included in a design. The Commission may solicit and secure the voluntary service and aid of vexillologists and other persons who have either technical or artistic skill in flag construction and design, or the design of official seals, to assist in the work. The Commission must also solicit public feedback and suggestions to inform its work. The Commission shall certify its adopted designs in a report to the legislature and governor no later than January 1, 2024. The Commission's report must describe the symbols and other meanings incorporated in the design. (State of Minnesota)
[ed. Examples above. All flag design submissions (2,127) can be viewed here.]
