Massachusetts State Flag News - August 29, 2025

BOSTON (AP) - Today, two major developments involving the Massachusetts state flag were in the spotlight:

In unveiling the next chapter of its redesign process, the Massachusetts Seal, Flag and Motto Advisory Commission released three finalist designs for a new state flag. The candidates include:

• A circle of feathers set against a crimson field, symbolizing both the state’s Indigenous heritage and its status as the sixth state to join the Union.
• A stylized gold star above rhythmic blue waves on a white background, evoking Massachusetts’s maritime legacy.
• A simple yet elegant mayflower blossom on a field of deep blue, nodding to the state flower and continuity with the current shield motif.

These options will be presented for public input during a series of six hearings held this fall, with feedback to inform the commission’s final recommendation to Governor Healey.

Meanwhile, flags at all Massachusetts state buildings continue to fly at half-staff under Governor Maura T. Healey’s order, marking a period of solemn remembrance for the victims of the August 27 violence in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The half-staff directive remains in effect from sunrise until sunset each day through August 31, 2025.

Next Steps The commission’s public hearings are set to commence in early September, with both in-person and virtual sessions planned to ensure broad participation. Final designs and a new state motto will be submitted to the Governor by late December, after which the Legislature must approve any changes before they become law.