Fun With Flags!

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In the early years, flags served a singular, powerful purpose: to identify and claim territory. Our state flags were created in times of expansion and conquest. But time has passed, and the United States has changed, becoming a vibrant mix of cultures and history. 

Regretfully, many of our state flags haven’t changed. They are reminders of a bygone period and frequently fail to convey the amazing diversity of this nation today. Since more and more people believe that our flags should finally represent who we are in the present day, a battle between the old and the new has started. 

The Push for Inclusivity

In an ongoing debate over state flags, some states have already stepped up and made some changes. In 2024, Minnesota and Utah instituted their changes, opening up an opportunity for other states to follow suit. In 2025, there have been no official changes as yet, but the conversations that were started a few years back have led some states to take some action towards change. 

Changing a flag doesn’t happen overnight. In fact, it’s generally years in the making. There’s a lot of paperwork and red tape to get through, proposals that need to be submitted, long meetings and discussions, and legislation that needs to be amended before any changes can actually go ahead. And then, of course, everyone needs to retire their old flags (using proper, respectful methods) and raise their new state flags. 

States Voting for Change

Washington

Washington may be considering a flag redesign. According to the Washington State Journal, they may consider including elements to “reflect the state’s diverse identity, history, and culture.” A bill (House Bill 1938) was put forward to create a committee and come up with a redesign by 2028.

The current flag depicts George Washington against a green background. It’s a unique flag, being the only one with a picture of a past president. According to Rep. Strom Peterson (D-Edmonds), it’s not about removing George Washington from the flag, but rather, “This is more about the aesthetics of the flag and what the flag could represent to bring people across the state together.”

Illinois

In 2024, Illinois decided that a flag redesign may be in order. They started a public contest, and thousands of submissions were considered. They then chose the top ten designs, which were published along with two historic flags and the current one, so that the public could vote for their favorites. The public favored the current flag, with a 43% majority, while the remaining votes were split between the other 12 options. 

The results were submitted in a report to the Illinois General Assembly, who have the final say, but to date, no decisions have been reached. It seems Illinois may be keeping its current flag.

When there’s a deep desire for the state flags to reflect our diverse identities, even if there are no official bills in progress, changes can only start with action and embracing those changes. 

Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, there is a loud call for state flag changes. To this end, the Massachusetts Seal, Flag, and Motto Advisory Commission has asked for public submissions for a new seal, flag, and motto. The public has been invited to submit their designs, which will be reviewed by the commission. They will select the top three designs, and once finalized, recommendations will be submitted to the governor. 

State Senator Paul Mark has his own ideas, however, and has introduced Senate Bill 2170 to change the flag.  His new design is proposed to have a “red ensign featuring a green pine tree on a white field in the canton (the upper corner of the flag near the flagpole).” This new seal and flag would be more “aspirational and inclusive of the diverse perspectives, histories, and experiences” of its residents. 

There are also suggested changes to the naval and maritime flag, which will reflect the latest changes and incorporate the pine tree and white field. 

Maine

In 2024, a proposal was submitted requesting that the state revert to a pre-1909 flag design. This flag showed a pine tree and the North Star. The referendum was overridden because more than half the voters who cast ballots opposed this motion. The proposal for a new flag received only 45% of the vote. 

Michigan

Michigan has been attempting to alter its state flag for years, with the most recent attempts in 2016 and 2021, which were unsuccessful. With a coat of arms and a few Latin lines, the current flag is complicated, making it difficult to read and even more difficult to identify from a distance. Towards the end of 2024, a bill (House Bill 6190) was introduced to establish a State Flag Commission to oversee a public design contest in 2025. 

The bill passed the House in May 2025 and was referred to the Senate Committee on Government Operations. Unfortunately it didn't make it any further and died at the end of the session, so the Michigan flag will remain unchanged for now.

Hawaii

Hawaii is currently having huge talks on a flag redesign. The current flag is viewed as an oppressive representation. With the Union Jack in the canton, it is a constant reminder of days under colonization. A new Hawaii flag design could, instead, depict both Hawaiian heritage and its current multicultural population on the island. 

Mississippi

Changes were made to the Mississippi flag in 2021. The new flag had overwhelming support at the time. However, there is still a wave of contention with the new design, with some people saying it would be better to return to the old design. Stepping back is never a good idea, but it does tell us that with enough support, perhaps Mississippi will be looking at new design options in the future. 

Oregon

Another state where conversations have been started about flag changes is Oregon. The current design is complex, as it shows the state seal on one side and a beaver on the back. So far, there has been no legislative action, but there is a call for change, so Oregon may enter into those discussions soon. 

Conclusion

With all the talks about state flag changes currently taking place, it gives us hope that more states will join the ranks in an effort to create change. With brand-new state flags flying high, it helps to unite us, not only in our states but also as a nation, standing together, knowing we can achieve the changes that accurately portray our celebration of diversity as we stand united.

Jordan McDowell

Writer & Content Strategist

Philadelphia, PA