Should Albany Replace Its 100-Year-Old Flag? Here’s Why the City Thinks So

Does the City of Albany Need a New Flag?

Albany is looking to make a change that's literally been flying over the city for more than a century.

City officials are asking artists, designers, students, and residents to submit ideas for a brand-new Albany flag. The current flag is more than 100 years old, and members of the city's Municipal Flag Task Force say it's time for an update.

The Empire State Plaza during the day

An Outdated Symbol?

According to News10 ABC, task force members believe parts of the existing design no longer reflect today's community. They point to outdated depictions of Native Americans and the inclusion of the word "assiduity," a term that few know the meaning of (it means thoroughness, btw), that many people no longer recognize.

The goal is to unveil a new flag in 2027 after submissions are narrowed to finalists, with Albany residents voting for their favorite.

The current flag representing the City of Albany.  Photo: Wiki

Keep it Simple; No AI

The city hopes the next flag will be simple, meaningful, and timeless. Designers are encouraged to use just two or three basic colors, avoid lettering and seals, and create a design that represents Albany's history and future.

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The city also made one thing very clear: no AI-generated artwork. Officials want original, human-created designs that residents can be proud of for decades to come.

What do you think: Does Albany even need a new flag? Should the city preserve its history, or is it time for a fresh design that better represents the Capital City today?

Click here to learn more and if you'd like to enter a design.