Author: james.alleman

We believe in the power of design to solve universal challenges, build (and shift) culture, and ultimately move people to action. When we heard the state of Mississippi was the last state flag to feature a (racist) confederate flag element, we responded by quickly assembling a diverse and talented design collective to contribute to the conversation with several alternate flag designs that the whole state could rally behind.

In the past, the Mississippi River was used as a way to flee from the state. This design shows the Mockingbird soaring over the Mississippi River, into Mississippi, as a reminder of new beginnings. A symbol of overcoming fear and finding the inner song and voice of a people that stand united together.

This design pays homage to the mound-building Mississippian culture, whose settlements would have dotted the banks of the river along what would become the state’s western border. Not identified with a single tribe, the architectural and agricultural traditions were the result of dozens of unique peoples including the Chickasaw, Choctaw, and Yazoo.

A play on a traditional three-bar design, the rolling waves of the Mississippi River acts as the gateway to the West. Our viewpoint is the green of the riverbank on the Mississippi side with a view towards the setting sun as it illuminates the state’s—and our country’s—progress towards inclusion.

A design that highlights the Mississippi River. The ring represents the community’s connection to Nature.

This design pays homage to the Mockingbird, Mississippi’s state bird. The Mockingbird can often represent overcoming fear and finding your inner song and voice. In the center of the flag, the bird soars over the Mississippi River as a reminder of new beginnings.

The Red Fox is the Mississippi state mammal; wise and cunning. In many cultures, particularly that of the Native Americans, the fox reveals itself during times of great and unpredictable change. With its heightened sense of awareness, the fox implores you to break free from your comfort zone and remain flexible with whatever comes next. Shown here with a red stripe signifying the Mississippi land, and a blue stripe representing the Mississippi River.

The honeybee is Mississippi’s state insect, and represents community, hope and personal power. This design features one bee from each region (Delta, Hills, Pines, Capital and Coastal) working together to build a brighter future on a foundation of Mississippi’s famous hospitality – signified by the color yellow which represents freshness, positivity, clarity, optimism, and enlightenment.

A daringly simple design that takes the outdated confederate X and turns it into a cross to represent healing. The orange represents courage and sacrifice but also optimism for the future.