After months of deliberation and public input, Minnesota has revealed a new state flag design aimed at replacing the previous flag, which was considered offensive by Native Americans. The proposed flag, unveiled on Tuesday, features a white eight-pointed star against a dark blue background in the shape of the state.

The special commission responsible for approving the design stated that it was a tribute to Minnesota's motto, "Star of the North," with the light blue representing the state's abundant waters. However, the commission chairman acknowledged that the flag could be interpreted differently by various individuals.

The basis of the new flag design was created by Andrew Prekker, a 24-year-old artist from Minnesota. Prekker expressed his gratitude and amazement, stating that it was an honor and privilege to contribute to the state's history in such a special way.

The flag design was approved by the State Emblems Redesign Commission with an 11-1 vote. In addition to the flag, the commission also approved a new state seal featuring the state bird, the loon.

On May 11, Minnesota's Statehood Day, the new flag is set to become official, pending approval by the state legislature. This development comes after years of debate surrounding the current flag, which dates back to 1957 and depicts a horse-mounted Native American moving away from a farmer with a plough and rifle. Many argued that it symbolized the displacement of Native Americans in Minnesota.

Comparisons have been drawn between Prekker's design and the flag of Puntland, a Somali state. Although Minnesota is home to a significant Somali diaspora and represented in Congress by Somali-born Senator Ilhan Omar, officials have clarified that the similarity is coincidental.

Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon addressed this issue directly during a recent commission meeting, pointing out that flag similarities exist between Iowa and France, as well as between Texas and Chile.

The redesign of state flags is a trend seen in several other U.S. states. Mississippi, for example, selected a new design in 2020 to replace a flag that featured the Confederate emblem. These changes highlight the ongoing efforts to create symbols that are inclusive and representative of the diverse populations in each state.

As Minnesota prepares to embrace a new flag, the state is taking a significant step toward acknowledging and addressing the concerns of its citizens, ensuring that the flag represents the shared history and values of all Minnesotans.