Minnesota officially adopted its new state flag, replacing the old flag that had been in use since 1957. Before the new flag was raised, the outgoing state flags were retired by the Minnesota National Guard. The Minnesota Department of Administration planned for the new flags to coincide with its flag replacement schedule. The old flags will no longer fly on any official government building, and the Minnesota Historical Society will preserve the old flag that flew over the Capitol and Court of Honor on Capitol Mall. The retired flags at the Capitol will be decommissioned according to the U.S. flag code.
There had been discussions about changing the state flag for years, as the old design was criticized for violating the principles of good flag design by experts. The imagery on the old flag, which featured a White settler tilling land as an Indigenous man rides horseback, also raised concerns. The redesign commission considered over 2,100 submissions from the public before creating the new flag, which includes two shades of blue representing Minnesota’s waters, an eight-pointed star for the “North Star State,” and an abstract depiction of the state’s shape. Flag expert Ted Kaye gave the final design an A+ rating, highlighting the thoughtful elements included in the new flag.
Following the adoption of the new state flag, there were suggestions for the disposal of the old flags. The Minnesota Courts system advised judicial districts to contact local government agencies for disposal options or to send them to the Judicial Center in St. Paul for burning. The Minnesota Historical Society stated that they do not have plans to display the retiring flag but will retain information about the old state seal which can still be used until January 2025 or until the supply is exhausted. Some Republican lawmakers in Minnesota attempted to halt the rollout of the new flag to gather more feedback on the design, but their efforts were unsuccessful.
The new state flag design includes elements that reflect Minnesota’s identity and history, such as the North Star symbol and the state’s natural resources. The Commission responsible for the redesign process spent four months reviewing submissions and considering various aspects of Minnesota’s culture and heritage. The new flag design received positive feedback from experts and the public, with many praising its visual appeal and representation of the state’s values. The adoption of the new flag marks a significant moment in Minnesota’s history, as the state transitions to a flag that better represents its diverse population and rich heritage.
Overall, the process of officially raising the new state flag in Minnesota signifies a moment of change and progress for the state’s visual identity. The retirement of the old flag and the introduction of the new design represent a step towards modernity and inclusivity in state symbols. With careful consideration of Minnesota’s history, culture, and natural features, the new flag design incorporates elements that resonate with residents and reflect the state’s unique character. As the old flags are retired and preserved, the new state flag will take its place as a symbol of unity and pride for the people of Minnesota.
