Flag of Mississippi (US state)

The state flag of Mississippi, officially adopted in 2021, represents a new chapter in the state’s history. It is a symbol of progress and reconciliation, moving away from a divisive past to embrace symbols of unity, faith, and the state’s natural beauty. Known as the "New Magnolia Flag," its design is a testament to the will of the people and their desire for a unifying banner that truly represents all Mississippians.

Flag Design, Symbolism, and Dimensions

The Mississippi flag is a modern and visually striking design with a tri-color field and a central emblem.

• Colors and Arrangement: The flag features three vertical stripes. The outer stripes are a shade of federal blue, and the wider central stripe is a vibrant red. The red and blue stripes are separated by thin gold vertical lines. This color scheme, especially the blue, red, and gold, offers a contemporary and elegant look. The blue symbolizes perseverance and justice, while the red represents valor and courage. The gold accents symbolize the state’s rich agricultural history and natural wealth.

• The Magnolia Blossom: The central emblem is a beautiful, white magnolia blossom, which is the state flower and a central symbol of Mississippi's identity. The magnolia represents hospitality and purity. The magnolia blossom is a nod to the state’s nickname, "The Magnolia State."

• Stars and Motto: Surrounding the magnolia is a ring of 20 white stars, commemorating Mississippi's status as the 20th state to join the Union. At the top of this ring is a larger, golden star, which not only honors the state's indigenous peoples but also symbolizes a new beacon of hope and opportunity. At the bottom, the national motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" is inscribed in bold, golden letters.

• Dimensions: The official dimensions of the flag are a ratio of 3:5.

A Brief History of the Flag's Creation and Adoption

The current flag’s history is rooted in a movement for change that spanned decades.

• The Old Flag (1894-2020): For over 126 years, Mississippi flew a flag that featured the controversial Confederate battle emblem in its canton. This design was a source of deep division, as many viewed the emblem as a symbol of slavery and racial injustice.

• A New Era of Change: Calls to change the flag intensified over the years. In 2020, in a historic legislative move, the Mississippi State Legislature voted to retire the old flag.

• The Path to a New Design: A nine-member commission was formed to design a new flag. After receiving over 3,000 public submissions, the commission selected a final design. This design was then put to a statewide vote on November 3, 2020, where it was overwhelmingly approved by voters.

• Official Adoption (2021): The "New Magnolia Flag" was officially signed into law by Governor Tate Reeves on January 11, 2021, marking a pivotal moment in the state’s history.

Historical Context and the State of Mississippi

The new flag is a powerful statement about Mississippi's evolving identity. It consciously breaks with a past that was painful and divisive for many of its residents. By embracing the magnolia blossom and a design that is visually distinct and modern, the flag signals a commitment to unity and progress. The inclusion of the 20 stars and the golden star for Native Americans is a powerful acknowledgment of the state's complete history, while the motto "In God We Trust" provides a unifying message of faith that transcends racial and historical divisions.

Significance for Residents

For residents of Mississippi, the new flag is more than just a banner; it is a profound symbol of hope, change, and shared identity. It represents a collective decision to move forward, to heal old wounds, and to build a more inclusive future. The magnolia symbolizes a deep connection to the state's land and its people, while the stars serve as a reminder of its place in the Union. The flag is a unifying symbol that can be proudly displayed by all Mississippians, regardless of their background or heritage.

Interesting Facts

• The new flag was chosen from a pool of over 3,000 submissions received by the Commission to Redesign the Mississippi State Flag.

• The designer of the new flag, Rocky Vaughan, collaborated with Sue Anna Joe, Kara Giles, and other artists on the final design.

• The magnolia blossom is the official state flower of Mississippi, adopted in 1952, and the magnolia tree is also the state tree.

• The golden star at the top of the ring is a nod to Mississippi's indigenous heritage, acknowledging the Choctaw, Chickasaw, Natchez, and other tribes.

• The flag’s design is often praised for its simplicity, elegance, and clear symbolism, which makes it easily recognizable and visually appealing, a stark contrast to many of the more complex "seal-on-a-bedsheet" flags.

In the demonstration images, full-size flags are shown with proportions of 2:3, and hand-held flags with proportions of 1:2.