Mississippi’s new flag features a magnolia in the center encircled by stars and the phrase “In God We Trust.” It replaces the one that had the confederate battle emblem. Legislators retired the old flag in June, as the U.S. was dealing with issues of racial injustice Lt. Governor Delbert Hosemann is pleased with voters’ support.
“This has been very well received by everyone. Over 70 percent of the people voted for the flag. That’s a huge positive vote and I think people will embrace the flag and we’ll go forward,” said Hosemann.
Hosemann says when lawmakers return to the capitol in January they must ratify the flag to make it the state’s official banner. The University of Mississippi has already put the flag up on campus. Former State Representative Mayor Toby Barker, of Hattiesburg says they weren’t flying the retired flag. He says they raised the new one at city hall yesterday.
“The state statute calls for it to be placed in all elementary schools, K-12 schools. I know that our university will fly it. We’ll fly it at other city facilities,” said Barker.
Brenda McIntyre, co-owner of a flag store in Jackson says they’re busy. People are coming in excited about buying the flag.
“People were buying before the actual vote. We took a chance and we had a good many of the 3 ft. by 5 ft. flags, which is kinda a common size most individuals fly,” said McIntyre.
McIntyre says some schools and cities in Mississippi have placed orders.
