Revisiting Symbols of Identity in American Cities

On September 11, 2001, a powerful image emerged: three New York firefighters raising the American flag over the ruins of the World Trade Center. It wasn’t just a photograph; it signified hope—the nation was shattered yet steadfast. That flag united countless individuals, encouraged military enlistment, and reinforced national strength shortly after an unprecedented attack.

Fast forward to 2025, and some American cities are broadcasting a different narrative. In places like Boise, Idaho, and Minneapolis, Minnesota, local officials are displaying symbolic flags that either challenge or completely disregard established national and state norms regarding civic identity.

If we seek unity, we need to lead with symbols that foster it. After all, if we don’t plant the flag, someone else might.

In Boise, a largely blue area in a red state, Mayor Lauren McLean has kept the Pride flag flying over City Hall, even in light of HB96, a law that limits public property flags to the American and state flags. Following a cease-and-desist order from Republican Attorney General Raul Labrador, McLean threatened legal action, asserting that her stance reflects community support. To get around the new law, the City Council voted 5-1 to adopt the Pride flag as an official emblem.

Meanwhile, in Minneapolis, state Senator Omar Fateh made headlines when he displayed a Somali regional flag at a campaign event last October. While supporters hailed it as a gesture to honor the city’s substantial Somali community, critics perceived it differently—seeing it as a political move that emphasized clan and regional loyalties over shared national identities.

At first, these actions may seem innocuous. However, those who understand historical conflicts recognize the significance of flags. They symbolize power, establishing boundaries, showing loyalty, and declaring leadership.

A flag displayed in a public space sends a message about the future of that area—it can symbolize conquest, without a single shot being fired.

Minneapolis highlights this concern. The Somali American community is vibrant and politically influential, a fact that candidates often leverage for votes. However, clan dynamics—shaped by Somalia’s tumultuous history—can complicate familial ties once they settle in the U.S.

Many observers note that Minneapolis’ recent mayoral race illustrated this clan-based divide, with various groups supporting or opposing Somali candidates based on heritage rather than ideology. This translates into electoral tension and complicates civic engagement.

When communities struggle with overlapping loyalties, political symbols matter immensely. Raising a foreign regional flag at an election rally is anything but neutral; it encourages gathering political influence around identities that may challenge American civic culture.

History reinforces this stance. For centuries, flags represented triumphs or defeats long before treaties. For instance, at Fort McHenry in 1814, the sight of the American flag still standing after relentless bombardment invigorated the defenders. That very moment inspired the words that led to our national anthem. At Iwo Jima in 1945, the American flag hoisted by Marines transformed a brutal battle into an emblem of determination, affecting morale on both sides.

Flags shape collective memories and signify identities. They indicate who is resolute and who is willing to yield.

Publicly displayed flags hold great significance in today’s climate. The Pride flag in Boise isn’t simply about “love is love.” It replaces a unifying symbol for Idahoans with something that can deepen divisions. Likewise, Fateh’s Somali flag isn’t merely a nod to cultural pride; it introduces an external political identity into local governance and indicates shifting influence over public affairs.

Americans face a choice: dismiss this trend or confront it head-on. Civic symbols can either unite or fragment communities. The flagpole at City Hall should serve to bring people together, rather than split them into opposing factions. Political rallies ought to resonate with citizens as Americans, not as groups tied to overseas identities.

The solution isn’t to react with anger. It’s about reclaiming a civic identity that reflects a shared allegiance to a common nation. Let’s raise the American flag. Let’s raise our state flag. Communities should certainly celebrate their traditions while also affirming the collective identity that binds them.

A nation that believes in itself will uphold its symbols, displaying them proudly at homes, city halls, and within public life. The strength of America starts with the values these flags represent.

If we want unity, we must prioritize symbols that encourage it. Because if we don’t plant the flag, someone else will.