Flag Submissions

The Illinois Flag Commission is exploring the possibility of a new State flag design. They will make recommendations to the General Assembly concerning whether the current State flag ought to be replaced with a redesigned State flag. Below are the three designs I submitted, along with a brief explanation of each.

Public Act 103-0513

Better Angel

Inspired by Abraham Lincoln’s words in his 1st inaugural address, this flag embodies the spirit of unity and inclusion he invoked when he spoke of the "better angels of our nature." The flag features a central figure with outstretched wings made of 20 stars, symbolizing the 1st 20 states and the collective spirit uniting Illinois' diverse population, symbolized by the 3 color blocks. A single star represents Illinois’ status as the 21st state to join the Union. See a detailed description below.

Heartland

In a bold tribute to our original state flag, the iconic eagle and state motto banner have been dynamically reimagined. The placement of a white star, shining at the eagle’s heart, symbolizes our state’s proud place in America’s heartland. The Morning Star honors the legacy of our Native American predecessors, while the Fleur de Lis nods to the French pioneers who shaped our state’s early history.

Crossroads Plaid

Distilling the colors and themes of our current state flag, this Crossroads Plaid design features two bold red stripes echoing the depiction of our state motto banner. The three horizontal stripes represent the state’s diversity. The colors of the stripes represent: yellow, our generous bounty; blue our great waterways; and green our vast prairies. The blue field and star represent our state as it appears on the American flag. The composite “plaid” depicts the crossroads of America.

Better Angel Details

Better Angel

A Flag for All Illinoisans

We're in this together.

“The mystic chords of memory, stretching from every battlefield and patriot grave to every living heart and hearthstone all over this land, will yet swell the chorus of the Union, when again touched, as surely, they will be, by the better angels of our nature.”

— President Lincoln’s First Inaugural Address, Monday, March 4, 1861

Inspired by Abraham Lincoln’s words in his first inaugural address, this flag embodies the spirit of unity and inclusion he invoked when he spoke of the "better angels of our nature." He believed Americans would remember there is harmony and strength in unity. In that spirit, this flag design seeks to remind Illinoisans to celebrate our unique contributions and perspectives. It inspires us to recognize the value each of us brings to our state. It reminds us that we live, work, and play together. And together, we can thrive.

The flag’s design includes three central elements:

The Better Angel: A stylized figure with outstretched wings serves as the centerpiece, representing the welcoming and protective spirit that unites Illinois' diverse population. The angel’s wings are formed by 20 stars, reflecting the first 20 states in the union, and symbolizing the people of the state gathered under its embrace.
Diversity in Colors: The flag features three colors, symbolizing the urban, suburban, and rural communities that together shape Illinois’ character.
The 21st Star: A single prominent star represents Illinois’ status as the 21st state to join the Union, placed in a position of honor on the flag.

This design stands as a reminder of the strength in diversity and the unity that helps Illinois flourish.