Vote for the New Illinois State Flag: Check Out the 10 Finalist Designs!

A commission has chosen 10 finalists for a new Illinois state flag, which will be open for public voting early next year. This initiative, led by the Illinois Flag Commission, emerged from nearly 5,000 submissions received since September. The designs reflect Illinois’ natural features, historical elements, and cultural icons, including the Monarch butterfly, violet flower, and tributes to corn, agriculture, and industry.

Voting Details

Beginning in January, residents can vote for one of the proposed designs or choose from three existing flags: the current flag, the 1918 Centennial Flag, and the 1968 Sesquicentennial Flag. The public vote will be tallied by April 1, and the commission will present its recommendations to the Illinois General Assembly.

Current Flag Overview

The existing state flag features a bald eagle and the state motto, but the commission aims to create a flag that represents the diversity of urban, suburban, and rural communities in Illinois. This movement was initiated by state Rep. Kam Buckner and state Sen. Doris Turner, with the measure signed into law by Gov. JB Pritzker last year.

Design Guidelines

Designers were encouraged to include elements that reflect Illinois’ history and culture, with no restrictions on flag shape or colors, although clarity was emphasized with a recommendation of fewer than three colors. AI-generated designs were not permitted.

Similar Initiatives

This process follows similar changes in other states, such as Minnesota, which adopted a new flag earlier this year, and Utah, which revamped its flag to honor its nickname, “The Beehive State.” Locally, Cook County updated its flag in 2022, featuring a design inspired by a high school student.

For a detailed view of the 10 finalists, visit this link.