BRAINERD, Minn. (KFGO/WCCO) – The Crow Wing County Board of Commissioners approved a resolution outlining their opposition to the new Minnesota state flag Tuesday.
Three commissioners voted to approve, one voted against the resolution, and one voted ‘present.’
Among those upset is Crow Wing County Commissioner Paul Koering, who says changing the flag is whitewashing the state’s history.
Others in the county also shared their thoughts on the flag during a public hearing.
“This thing right here, you can’t convince me that that represents us up here in Crow Wing County. I’m just going to state the obvious – that is awful. That is an awful design. I completely reject it, and it will never be my flag,” Crow Wing County resident and Minnesota State Rep. Ben Davis said.
The new flag, featuring two shades of blue, a star, and a profile of the state itself, was approved last month following a very public process that included the creation of a new state seal.
The change in flag comes as many feel the current seal portrayed on it contains racist images. The new flag and seal will be officially adopted on May 11 – the 166th anniversary of Minnesota becoming a state.
The Crow Wing County Board of Commissioners is planning on sending a letter to Gov. Walz and other state leaders.
