Minnesota's New Flag Design Sparks Controversy and Misinformation
Minnesota unveils a new state flag, sparking false claims of Somali influence. The redesign, aimed at inclusivity, faces politicization and misinformation spread on social media.
In 2001, the North American Vexillological Association conducted a survey ranking state and provincial flags. Minnesota's flag ranked 67th out of 72, prompting a recent redesign effort. The new flag, unveiled in May 2024, features three elements: a dark blue field representing the night sky, a light blue section symbolizing Minnesota's 11,842 lakes, and an eight-pointed star reflecting the state's "North Star" motto.
Andrew Prekker, a resident of Luverne, submitted the original design, which was later modified by a commission. The redesign aimed to create a unifying symbol for all Minnesotans, including Indigenous communities.
However, the new flag has sparked controversy and misinformation. Some critics, particularly on the political right, falsely claim it resembles Somalia's flag. This comparison relies on common flag elements: stars and the color blue. The controversy gained traction after Tim Walz, Minnesota's governor since 2019, was selected as a potential vice presidential candidate.
The redesign process began in 2023 when state Representative Mike Freiberg proposed revamping Minnesota's iconography. The previous flag, adopted in 1957, featured a problematic depiction of a white farmer displacing Native Americans. A commission of Minnesotans and experts was created to select a new design.
"It was designed very deliberately to depict white farmers displacing Native Americans. So it's just not something that's distinctive. It's just not something that … at least I'm proud of."
The controversy reflects a broader trend of politicizing community-driven efforts to address cultural issues. Social media platforms have amplified these false claims, with prominent figures like Elon Musk engaging with misleading posts.
Minnesota, which became the 32nd state in 1858, has a rich history reflected in its symbols. The "North Star State" nickname dates back to 1861, and the state is home to the largest Somali population in the United States, estimated at 69,000 in 2019. The first Somali immigrants arrived in Minnesota in the 1980s, contributing to the state's diverse cultural landscape.
As the controversy unfolds, it's crucial to recognize the thoughtful process behind the flag redesign and the importance of accurate information in public discourse.
