Cook County launched #FLAG2021, a contest for County high school students to redesign the Cook County flag in time for the County’s 190th anniversary.
A Flag Design Advisory Panel was established by the Cook County Board in a December 2019 resolution sponsored by Commissioner Scott Britton, who serves as Panel Chair. “This contest provides an opportunity for a dynamic new flag design,” said Britton. “I am confident we will find many designs worthy of representing Cook County into the 21st century.”
“The contest to create a new flag is an exciting opportunity for high school students to engage with civics and the County’s history,” said Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle. “As we celebrate the County’s 190th anniversary in 2021, I look forward to working with young people to leave a mark on our history.”
On the flag contest website, students are advised to consider the geography, mission and history, and people of Cook County. The new County Flag will be the banner for all 5.2 million residents, and students are advised to describe the meaning and symbolism in their designs.The deadline for students to submit entries is April 15, 2020. The winning flag design will become the official banner of Cook County and will be flown and displayed in all locations where the current flag is located.
Submissions are now open, and students may submit online at www.cookcountyil.gov/flag2021, via email to flag2021@cookcountyil.gov, or by mailing a paper entry form or any physically constructed flag to 118 North Clark Street, Room 436, Chicago, IL 60602.