Massachusetts Is Choosing a New Flag

In 2025, Massachusetts is in the midst of updating its state flag and related symbols. The process began after the Legislature voted to establish a special commission to study the issue and recommend alternatives. The effort aims to create a design that represents all residents, acknowledges the Commonwealth’s history, and is easy to recognize and reproduce. 

Supporters of change argue that state symbols should reflect shared civic values and avoid imagery that can be read as celebrating colonial violence. They point to modern design standards and the importance of inclusive symbolism in a diverse society. Criticism of the current flag, which dates back to the early 1900s, intensified in the 2010s and led directly to the commission’s creation.

The redesign process in 2025 includes public outreach, submission of design proposals, expert review, and rounds of refinement. Input is being gathered from residents, historians, designers, and representatives of Indigenous communities to ensure the final result is accurate, respectful, and functional.

Common design goals include simplicity, meaningful symbolism, and strong color contrast. Successful flags are identifiable at a distance, printable at small sizes, and workable without text or seals. Symbols that reference the state’s natural features, civic ideals, or historical milestones are often favored.

The redesign process in 2025 has produced three finalist flag proposals. The first design, known as the “Blue Hill Banner,” features a golden star above rolling blue hills and waves, symbolizing Massachusetts’ landscape and maritime heritage. The second design highlights the mayflower, the state flower, with a white blossom on a dark blue background and a central golden star, linking natural beauty with civic identity. The third design presents a deep red field with six white turkey feathers arranged in a circle, referencing Indigenous symbolism and Massachusetts’ status as the sixth state admitted to the Union. 

Once a preferred design emerges, it will move to elected officials for formal approval, most likely in 2026. Implementation would then include updating flag displays at public buildings, revising digital assets, and phasing in changes to official publications and merchandise over the following years.

Residents can participate by following public meetings, reviewing proposed designs, and submitting feedback. Broad participation helps ensure the flag represents the Commonwealth as it is today and stands the test of time.