State flag; change to the design by Lourie Formby.
Impact
The passage of SB2219 would formalize the design of the state flag and aim to unify state identity under a symbol that is inclusive of Mississippi's heritage. This redesign is significant in addressing historical issues linked to previous flag designs, which some viewed as divisive. The new flag, by featuring symbols of hospitality and hope such as the magnolia blossom, is intended to promote a sense of pride among residents while celebrating the diverse cultural influences that have shaped Mississippi over the years.
Summary
Senate Bill 2219 seeks to amend Section 3-3-16 of the Mississippi Code of 1972, fundamentally altering the official state flag of Mississippi. The bill proposes the adoption of a design recommended by the Commission to Redesign the Mississippi State Flag and approved by voters in a statewide election in November 2020. This design features a stylized white magnolia blossom, which is the state flower, along with twenty white stars representing Mississippi's position as the twentieth state of the United States. The color scheme incorporates Old Glory Red, Old Glory Blue, and Old Gold, reflecting important aspects of Mississippi's cultural and historical identity.
Contention
Notably, discussions surrounding the bill may evoke varied responses regarding the flag's design and what it represents. Supporters argue that the new design marks a positive step in acknowledging and embracing the state's full history, including its indigenous peoples and the contributions of various ethnic groups. However, some detractors may still cling to legacy perceptions attached to past flag designs, which could lead to contention over state identity and representation moving forward. The decision encapsulated in SB2219 is thus more than just a change in a flag; it's an emblematic shift in how Mississippi presents itself to its own citizens and the world.