There is no doubt there is a cultural debate over the identity of the United States, and what it means to be an American. For some, America stands for a controlled, normalized hegemony built on land ownership, westward expansion, border walls and human dominion over the earth, but for many more, America stands for bringing your huddled masses, freedom of the press, cultural and gender diversity, opportunity and hope.
Both visions are true. Some people came to America for freedom. Some people came for dominion. Many arrived as slaves. Those who were here were disregarded, displaced, idolized and disempowered. Millions of first nations people died due to the spread of illness, both intentionally and unintentionally as well as war. The freedoms that exist stand within a larger framework of power that offers efficiency, but not equality and very often, not justice.
The news of Justice Kennedy’s retirement had just broken and several progressive candidates had won primaries.
It’s within this embattled national narrative that a group of designers came together at Vermilion, the Design and Digital agency in Boulder, Colorado to envision a flag to represent the country we live in today.
The flags designed during the event were as diverse as the political landscape. Some ironically depicting greed and government bloat, some representing division, data driven politics, federalism, and others offering hope for people to come together around a new vision for the country.
Vermilion was a great host, providing an all-American spread of hotdogs, chips, beer, wine and fruit to celebrate the upcoming 4th of July holiday. Flag trivia included questions on who designed the American flag as we know it today (Robert G. Heft), the aspect ratio of the US flag (10 x 19), and how many US flags there are on the moon (six), among others. Winners walked away with small prizes to celebrate the 4th.
Fun was had by all. Watch the calendar and join us for our next event.
