Is Manitobaâs 150th anniversary a time to re-imagine a modern take on the provincial flag?
Thatâs the question raised in a weekend story published by CBC Manitoba that features points raised by a Manitoba high school student and flag aficionado who argues that the provincial symbol is excessively Anglo-focused, lacks proper recognition of our French and Indigenous heritage, has been recognized as the worst-designed of the countryâs provincial flags and is too similar to the design used by Ontario.
The topic was further explored in a now-active eBrandon discussion thread, which has seen perspectives raised from both sides of the debate ranging from those who see no need for or benefit to a change from a long-established history to those who feel there may be some merit to a design that better distinguishes present-day Manitoba.
According to CBC, the Province has said there are no plans for a change in flag as part of Manitobaâs 150th anniversary. The Province in 2016 celebrated the 50th anniversary of the proclamation of the flag, at the time quoting Sport, Culture and Heritage Minister Rochelle Squires as saying that âEvery day, in communities all across Manitoba, our flag instills pride in our citizens and reminds us of our shared appreciation for the place that we are so proud to call home.â
You can review thoughts of local folks and have your say in the attached discussion thread.