Friends and neighbors,
As seen through the numerous constituent emails, phone calls and sidewalk chats I’ve had in recent months, many Minnesotans are concerned with getting rid of our old state flag. I am also troubled by Democrats’ attempts to erase our state’s history, and I strongly believe we need to preserve this important piece of our heritage.
The legislature adopted our current state flag in 1957, and I believe it to be a beautiful representation of our great state. It contains deep symbolism for Minnesota such as the three dates woven into a wreath of the state flower: 1858, the statehood year; 1819, the year Fort Snelling was established; and 1893, the year the original flag was adopted. It also has depictions of Minnesota’s Native American heritage and our state’s strong agricultural ties.
However, there have been recent attempts to depict its design as ‘racist.’ But this is a false narrative, and in fact, state law says the following about our state flag.
According to MN Statutes 1.135: “The Indian on horseback is riding due south and represents the great Indian heritage of Minnesota. The Indian’s horse and spear and the Pioneer’s ax, rifle, and plow represent tools that were used for hunting and labor.”
We have until May 11, Statehood Day, before the new state flag will fly, unless we can block the Democrats’ path to implement the new flag. That is why I need you to please continue to speak up against this change and join me in trying to save our beloved and historic Minnesota state flag!
Next week, on Tuesday, March 5, Minnesotans will gather for a rally at the Capitol steps from noon-1:30 p.m. to save our historic state flag. I encourage you to make your voice heard and let our elected officials know that the public should have the final say on replacing or keeping our state flag.
Contact My Office
I always encourage constituents to contact me with any questions or to offer their ideas. Please reach out by email at sen.torrey.westrom@mnsenate.gov or by phone at 651-296-3826.
Sincerely,
Torrey