The proposed new Utah flag is simple, attractive and rich with symbolism. It represents our state’s history, culture, and geography very well. It can be recognized from a distance. It can be drawn from memory. With time, people from all around the country will recognize it as representing the great state of Utah, the same way most people recognize the flags of Texas or Alaska or Colorado.
I was born and raised in Colorado. Now I have lived in Utah longer than in my native state. Not long ago I landed at Denver International Airport. As I walked down the concourse, I caught sight of a huge Colorado flag hanging from the ceiling. My heart swelled with pride! What a deep emotional impact from just the sight of that flag! I love Utah, but the current Utah flag would never inspire anyone the way the Colorado flag did me that day.
Last summer my wife and I visited the Four Corners Monument. There, flying proudly over that unique location were the beautiful flags of Arizona, New Mexico and Colorado – and then there was Utah’s. The juxtaposition of three well-designed, inspiring flags next to such a busy, forgettable one was jarring and disappointing.
Our state and its great people deserve better. The work of designing, reviewing, and refining options is complete, and a worthy new design is before you. If adopted, I am certain that more Utahns will show their pride by flying the new flag at our homes and businesses, by wearing it on our clothing, and by affixing it to our water bottles, bumpers and backpacks. The new flag would become an instant ambassador for our state.
Quintin Johnson, Kaysville
