New Zealand could change its flag to feature a silver fern
New Zealand has officially named an alternative to its national flag following calls to part with the current design, which is similar to Australia's flag and features the Union Jack, a symbol of British colonialism. The proposed challenger instead displays a silver fern and the Southern Cross; it was created by architect Kyle Lockwood and is the final choice in a selection process that began with over 10,000 submitted designs.
But Lockwood's design is more than just a pretty picture. Here's the rationale behind the proposed flag:
Not everyone thinks it's time for change, however. A recent poll showed 65 percent of the country wants to keep the current flag. New Zealanders will have their chance to decide between the two flags when a final, binding referendum is voted on next March.
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Jeva Lange was the executive editor at TheWeek.com. She formerly served as The Week's deputy editor and culture critic. She is also a contributor to Screen Slate, and her writing has appeared in The New York Daily News, The Awl, Vice, and Gothamist, among other publications. Jeva lives in New York City. Follow her on Twitter.
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