A petition to reinstate Minnesota’s original state flag—after it was redesigned by a committee—has surpassed 10,000 signatures.
The petition, filed on Change.org, is approaching 11,000 signatures. “We’ve hit 10,000 signatures already so let’s keep it going!” an X post reads, while urging even more residents to join the effort to “get our flag back.”
We’ve hit 10,000 signatures already so let’s keep it going! I want to send a huge THANK YOU to every single one of you who have signed so far! Let’s get our flag back! 🎉 https://t.co/qqU0aW24Vg pic.twitter.com/0DeVNtYsdi
— Minnesota Lady America First🇺🇸 (@BubbyBlu29353) August 11, 2025
Supporters of the petition argue that the redesign approved in 2024 by Gov. Tim Walz and the state legislature fails to reflect the people of Minnesota. They lament how the change was imposed “without consulting the broader Minnesota community,” and say the original 1893 flag carries richer historical symbolism.
“As someone who grew up with the original flag, it holds a special place in my heart,” the petition reads, calling the flag “a proud symbol that stands for our unity and identity.” The petition organizers say that the new design “wipes out the symbol that so many of us associate with our state pride and heritage,” the petitioners stated.
They further cited surveys and regional historians to support their view that a significant share of Minnesotans prefer the old design. They wrote that reverting back would ensure future generations appreciate the state’s cultural legacy through the original state flag. “It’s a symbol of respect for the past, a gift to the future, and a foundation for a more united present,” their campaign reads.
“The North Star State requires a flag that not only captures its essence but also respects its past. The current flag does not fulfill these objectives and, as a community, we need to advocate for the reinstatement of our traditional emblem,” the petition states.
The petition comes amid persistent controversy over the redesign. Since becoming official in 2024, some rural counties and cities—including Crow Wing, Nobles, Houston and McLeod counties, along with towns like Pequot Lakes, Crosslake and Babbitt—have refused to fly the new flag.
These cities and counties have cited cost, cultural attachment to the old design, and opposition to what they see as a divisive symbol. Many continue to display the retired flag or leave state flagpoles empty.
Despite mandates requiring state-owned buildings to display the new flag, the law reportedly exempts counties and cities.
Hayley Feland
Hayley Feland previously worked as a journalist with The Minnesota Sun, The Wisconsin Daily Star, and The College Fix. She is a Minnesota native with a passion for politics and journalism.
