The state flag of Pennsylvania is in need of an upgrade. As the founding state of the United States of America, we would expect Pennsylvania to have a flag that represents its unique and important place in America’s history. This however is not the case. In fact, our state flag shares a very similar design to about twenty other states. Take for example the Michigan state flag which is nearly identical to ours. Not only is our flag unremarkable, it is overcomplicated and difficult to remember.

    The Keystone, our most important symbol,  which is featured in everything from our nickname as the ‘Keystone state’ to our road signs is conspicuously absent from our flag. 

    All this has led me to believe that we should redesign our state flag. Ideally, the new design would have elements that would call back to the current flag while still being simplified and unique. I have seen many ideas for potential redesign that include the colors from the coat of arms in the current flag; blue, green, and gold. Many other states have recently redesigned their flags including Utah, a state that, in 2023, changed its flag from a design that was similar to ours to a less complicated and memorable flag that showcases what makes Utah distinct. 

    I would appreciate it if you readers would join me in petitioning the Pennsylvania government to change our great state flag into something we all can be proud of.