Mississippi will change state flag for the first time in 126 years

As the results of the 2020 presidential election are still being determined, some states have completed their ballot count including Mississippi. The southern state will be replacing the traditional “Great River” flag with the “New Magnolia” flag featuring the state flower.

CNN projects Mississippi voters have approved a new state flag featuring a magnolia design, after the state dropped its previous flag that included a Confederate emblem. #CNNElection https://t.co/x5y9nXfPBH

— CNN (@CNN) November 4, 2020

72% of Mississippi voters approved the “New Magnolia” flag to replace the current state flag dating back to 126 years reflecting the state’s history with the Confederacy. Mississippians pressured lawmakers to change the “Great River” flag because the Confederate emblem is a symbol of racism.

The Mississippi commission voted 8 to 1 for the “New Magnolia” flag and the legislature for the new flag will be formally approved in January when the 2021 legislative session begins. After the formal approval, the new flag will be featured at the state buildings.

(Photo: Pieter van de Sande)

The “New Magnolia” flag will reflect the rich history of Mississippi including the state flower, 20 stars to symbolize the 20th state, the phrase “In God We Trust,” and a single yellow star to represent the Native Americans of the region. Mississippi Supreme Court Justice and flag commission chairman Reuben Anderson explained, “We’ll send a message that we live in the future and not in the past.”