Mississippi Hoists New State Flag Without Confederate Emblem for First Time

Mississippi hoisted its new state flag for the first time at the state capitol on Monday, six months after legislators retired the former one featuring a Confederate battle emblem.

The new flag shows a white magnolia on a blue, gold and red background with white stars. Beneath the flower is the phrase “In God We Trust.” The single gold star at the top represents Native Americans and is composed of diamond shapes significant to Choctaw culture.

“When many looked at our former flag, they just saw a symbol of the state and heritage they love. But many felt dismissed, diminished and even hated because of that flag,” Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves (R) said on Monday, The Associated Press reports.

“That is not a firm foundation for our state. So today, we turn the page,” said Reeves.

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