Minnesota's State Emblems Redesign Commission recently unveiled the chosen design for the state's new flag and seal. This represents a substantial advancement in the continuous attempt to redesign the symbols of the state.
The commission, responsible for this redesign, voted 11-1 to approve the updated flag on December 19, as per to Fox News.
Minnesota Unveils Redesigned Flag
MINNEAPOLIS, MN - DECEMBER 23: A Minnesota flag blows in the wind and snow on December 23, 2020 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Mid-forties temperatures this morning are giving way to high speed wind, low temperatures, and heavy snowfall, as blizzard warnings blanket the state.
The new flag showcases an eight-pointed star against a navy blue background, cleverly shaped to resemble the state of Minnesota. This is accompanied by a solid light-blue field, symbolizing the state's abundant waters, according to the commission's description. Minnesota artist Andrew Prekker, whose design formed the basis of the new flag, expressed his surreal feelings at having his work selected.
In a statement on the commission's website, Prekker acknowledged the rare privilege of contributing to the state's history, expressing hopes that the achievement would foster unity and pride. Luis Fitch, the commission's chairman, emphasized the goal of using the flag to unite Minnesotans, promoting a sense of shared identity that transcends cultural differences.
The Minnesota state legislature passed a bill in May 2023, propelling the momentum to redesign the flag and seal. This decision comes as a response to long-standing concerns surrounding the current design, which has remained unchanged since the 1960s.
The previous flag has come under scrutiny due to its portrayal of Indigenous Americans, which has been deemed by certain individuals as insensitive and evocative of the historical displacement of Native people in Minnesota.
During the selection process, the commission carefully reviewed more than 2,500 public submissions. These submissions included designs that paid tribute to Minnesota's beloved state symbols, such as the loon and the monarch butterfly.
The significant role in reshaping the state's symbols was driven by the desire to move away from the controversial portrayal of Native Americans, according to CNN News.
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Controversy Over Minnesota's New Flag
Social media platforms have become a breeding ground for misinformation surrounding the new flag. Specifically, a right-wing account has been identified as the source of false claims, asserting that Minnesota has already selected a flag resembling that of the autonomous state of Puntland in Somalia.
In a recent turn of events, a viral post has sparked controversy and captured the attention of the public. This post has shed spite on the Somali population residing in the state, leading to a surge in unfounded conspiracy theories.
Minnesota authorities have provided clarification regarding the decision to replace the previous flag. According to them, the motivation behind this move stems from concerns over the flag's cluttered design and its perceived insensitivity towards the Indigenous American population.
After an extensive review of numerous design submissions, the Emblems Redesign Commission has made its decision. They have chosen a two-block design in hues of light and dark blue. Notably, the left side of the design showcases an eight-point star, paying homage to Minnesota's well-known moniker as the "North Star State."
Pending any legislative action to overturn the commission's decision, the new flag is set to fly over government buildings starting on May 11, coinciding with Minnesota's Statehood Day. This marks a crucial step in the state's commitment to a more inclusive and representative visual identity, Daily Beast reported.
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