BREAKING: The race for a new state flag in Massachusetts is heating up as the Massachusetts Seal, Flag and Motto Advisory Commission has just advanced 48 flag designs, 23 seals, and 32 mottos from over 1,000 submissions. The commission’s decision comes amid growing calls for change in the state’s symbols, with some quirky designs—including a dinosaur holding a Dunkin’ coffee cup—falling short of the mark.
The advisory commission was established in 2024 to revamp the state’s seal, flag, and motto. This is a critical step in a process initiated by public input that commenced in May, allowing residents to submit their own creative proposals. The commission will ultimately narrow the choices down to three options, which will go through at least three public hearings across the state to gather further feedback before making final recommendations to the governor.
Currently, Massachusetts has a state flag featuring a white banner with the state seal at its center, a design that dates back to 1898. Critics argue that the symbolism is outdated and perpetuates colonial narratives, with the seal depicting a Native American man and an arm holding a sword, symbolizing the state’s military crest. The existing motto, “ense petit placidam sub libertate quietem,” translates to “by the sword we seek peace, but peace only under liberty,” a phrase many find contradictory to Indigenous experiences.
This push for change gained momentum in 2021 when advocates began highlighting the need for a more inclusive representation. While many support the redesign, others have voiced their desire to retain the existing symbols. One proposal that advanced suggests removing only the arm and sword above the Native American figure while keeping the current flag’s simplicity.
According to a survey conducted by a prior commission in 2023, popular symbols for the revised seal include the shape of Massachusetts, the coastline, right whales, the Mayflower, and cranberries. Interestingly, 30.2% of respondents still wish to see a Native American or Indigenous person represented on the new seal.
The chosen designs celebrate Massachusetts’ rich heritage, featuring elements like the state flower, the Mayflower, lighthouses, and green pine trees. Designs can be viewed on the Massachusetts government website, showcasing the community’s creativity and engagement in this significant initiative.
However, not all submissions made the cut. Some bizarre entries included one that featured Gov. Maura T. Healey next to a Dunkin’ cup, a whale with laser beams, and a shark wearing a pilgrim hat. Additionally, various motto submissions that were not selected ranged from humorous to thought-provoking, such as “In Cod We Trust” and “Massachusetts: We made your CEO.”
This ongoing debate around the state flag reflects deeper societal conversations about representation and inclusivity. As the commission moves forward, the eyes of Massachusetts are on the upcoming public hearings, where residents will have a chance to voice their opinions on what the future flag should embody.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops and the commission prepares for the next steps in this transformative process for Massachusetts.
