How would you redesign the WA flag?

Some Washington lawmakers want to give the state flag a makeover.

The flag, which has George Washington’s mug up against a green background, has apparently been criticized for its “poor design” and “lack of relevance to the state’s identity,” according to House Bill 1938, which proposes a redesign by 2028.

Compared with other state flags, it feels plain, the bill argues. Other flags have references to flora and fauna, like the grizzly bear that adorns the California state flag. Or they might feature Indigenous symbolism.

If the proposal passes, a commission will seek public input on a new flag that better represents Washington’s diverse history, landscape and culture, and then it would go to voters through a referendum.

In all likelihood, it will get tabled for another year, as most bills do. But we don’t have to wait for legislation to brainstorm a few ideas, as we did with the Seattle flag a few years ago.

What should the new flag include? Mount Rainier, towering over the horizon? The orca, a symbol of the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty? A nod to Indigenous heritage? Or maybe a modern twist on the current design?

We want to hear your ideas. Share your thoughts, sketches or descriptions of what you envision for Washington’s next state flag. We’ll publish a selection of reader submissions.

Here are some guidelines from the North American Vexillological Association’s five key design rules for flags:

1. Keep it simple.  The flag should be so simple that a child can draw it from memory.
2. Use meaningful symbolism. The flag’s images, colors or patterns should relate to what it symbolizes.
3. Use two or three basic colors. Limit the number of colors on the flag to three that contrast well and come from the standard color set.
4. No lettering or seals. Never use writing of any kind or an organization’s seals.
5. Be distinctive or be related. Avoid duplicating other flags, but use similarities to show connections.

Send your designs to morningbrief@seattletimes.com. We’ll share a few of our favorites soon.