ST PAUL, Minn. — The State Emblems Redesign Commission announced Wednesday that there are more than 2,200 submissions for a new Minnesota state flag.
Some say the redesign is long overdue because the current imagery is offensive and illustrates a Native American being driven off the land.
The current flag that flies over Minnesota has largely stayed the same since the design was adopted 130 years ago.
"It's time for a reboot," said Anita Talsman Gaul, vice chair of the commission. "Number one, it's just too busy and second of all, it's dated and it's offensive to some communities."
Governor Tim Walz signed this new step into law last spring. Talsman Gaul will work with 12 other voting members of the commission to eventually vote on the new design for both the flag and seal. It received more than 2,200 submissions for the flag about 400 submissions for the seal.
They were all made public on Wednesday.
"I see a lot of North Star designs, we love the loon and for a color, we tend to like the blue," said Talsman Gaul, who acknowledged not all the submissions should be taken seriously.
Those include a dog, a loon with lasers and poking fun at the Minnesotan accent. What may win someone the top prize, as recommended by a vexillologist, or a flag expert, should include symbolism and simplicity.
"The recommendation was even a kid could recognize it and draw it," said Talsman Gaul, who expects to be very busy the next two weeks.
The commission has to narrow the submissions down the top five by November 21. It then has to make a final decision before the first of the new year. The commission is encouraging you to add their comments to the designs because public comment is a mandatory part of the statute.
Unless both houses of the legislature veto it, the new flag should fly on Statehood Day on May 11, 2024.
Minnesota state flag designs make up about 85% of the submissions. Those are available to view here.
Minnesota state seal designs make up approximately 15% of submissions. Those are available to view here.
Both links have also been added to the State Emblems Redesign Commission website.
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