The state of Mississippi is flying a new flag thanks to overwhelming support from voters.
What We Know:
- Voters on Tuesday approved Mississipi’s Ballot Measure 3, which proposed a new design for the state’s flag. The new flag displays a magnolia blossom surrounded by stars and the phrase “In God We Trust”.
- This flag will replace the old Mississippi flag which was retired in June. The previous flag stirred controversy because it was seen by many as a racist symbol. The 126-year-old flag design featured the Confederate battle emblem and legislators decided to shelve it after national outrage against Confederate monuments.
- The new flag honors Mississippi’s status as the Magnolia State and pays tribute to Mississippi’s indigenous population with a gold five-point star. The design was chosen to be placed on the ballot out of 3,000 design options.
“Mississippi voters sent a message to the world that we are moving forward together.” – Reuben Anderson, former Mississippi Supreme Court Justice
The ballot measure received more than 70% support from voters and received a majority vote in all counties except two. The state legislature will now have to pass a law during their next 2021 session to officially make this the state flag.
