MN Democrats Want To Change 'Offensive' State Flag

ST. PAUL, MN — Minnesota Democrats have renewed their efforts to change the state flag, which they say is boring and offensive to Native Americans.

House File 274 creates the "State Emblems Redesign Commission" which would create and recommend new designs for the official state flag to the legislature and governor.

The current state flag dates back to 1858 and was designed by Amelia Hyde Center of Minneapolis.

The flag emblem depicts a pioneer plowing a field while a Native American man on horseback rides toward the sunset.

"Minnesotans For A Better Flag" lists 10 reasons why an update is needed, including that it's boring and its details are too small, confusing, and even controversial.

"The seal originally symbolized the white man’s takeover of the frontier from the Native Americans," the group states. "It is confused with more than twenty other state flags: all blue backgrounds with a seal."

Rep. Andy Smith said on Twitter he doesn't include the state seal on office stationary and business cards "because it is not respectful to all Minnesotans."

Minnesotans For A Better Flag has several proposed designs on its website.

Previous efforts to create a new state flag commission have stalled in part due to opposition from state Republicans. Democrats' efforts face better odds with their party in full control of the state legislature and governorship this session.

Learn more about the state flag at the Minnesota Historical Society website.