Mississippi’s Gulfport to Vote on New Flag, Motto, and Seal

DECEMBER 12, 2024 — Gulfport City Council members will decide on a new city flag, motto, and seal during their upcoming meeting on December 17, reports WLOX.

The initiative to create a new city flag began in January when Gulfport formed a Flag Commission and opened a design contest to the public, says the Magnolia Tribune. Submissions were accepted through an online portal starting in August and closed in September.

The Flag Commission, led by Frank Bordeaux, narrowed the entries to a single proposed design, which will be presented for approval or denial on Tuesday.

According to the City’s agenda, the proposed flag is intended to “reflect elements that convey the city’s culture, personality, and character” and incorporates colors and symbols tied to Gulfport’s history and values.

The flag’s design features a blue field representing vigilance, perseverance, and harmony, along with a gold circle symbolizing hope, optimism, and unity. Seven white stars, representing the city’s wards and sand beaches, also embody faith, freedom, and peace. At the center, an anchor reflects Gulfport’s maritime heritage and symbolizes strength and stability.

Mayor Billy Hewes emphasized the significance of the project, describing it as an effort to create a unifying symbol for the city. “The commission is central to this endeavor, channeling the community’s input into a symbol representing Gulfport for generations,” Hewes said.

The current city flag, designed roughly 50 years ago, has not been in use for several years.

Frank Bordeaux, who also chairs the Mississippi Republican Party and served on the Mississippi Flag Commission, expressed his commitment to reflecting Gulfport’s identity. “Having experienced the unifying power of a flag in Mississippi, I am honored to lead an effort that will reflect and celebrate the essence of Gulfport today while laying a foundation for tomorrow,” he said.

Image: WLOX