The Salem Flag Project

Help create a lasting symbol for the people of Salem! 
Oregon’s capitol city is embarking on a project to revise the city flag. Originally created in a contest by local banks to promote tourism, the 1970’s design never caught on or was widely known to exist. Besides the unpopularity and obscurity of the flag, the current design is not considered a modern, proper design following the five Principles of good flag design. With the Salem flag project you can help us create and adopt a new flag for Oregon's beautiful, capital city!

Salem's Current flag

Did you even know Salem had a flag? We do, but have you ever seen it? The only example of the flag that is publicly available is in City Council Chambers.
<---This lone example of our great city with its pastels and funky lettering is begging to be retired in favor of a fresh new flag. --->

Learn more about Flag Design!

Teachers and Educators 

Download the instructions and Flag Design PDF's

The 5 basic rules of Good Flag Design 

1.  Keep It Simple. The flag should be so simple that anyone can draw it from memory.
2.  Use Meaningful Symbolism. The flag's images, colors, or patterns should relate to what it symbolizes.
3.  Use 2 or 3 Basic Colors. 
4.  No Lettering or Seals. 
5.  Be Distinctive or Be Related.
According to the North American Vexillogical Association ​
Rules:
​1. All entires must be accompanied by a description of the flag. If no description is submitted, the elements may be used and provided a new interpretation by the committee. 2. All submissions are property of the Salem Flag Project. 4. All submitted entries shall become the property of the Salem Flag Project, and may be modified, reproduced, and published at the Project’s sole discretion. 5. Elements used from various submissions in the final design, will be credited to the creator as possible. 6. The winning finalists will be selected and announced in July 2021. The finalist will be recognized at Young Leaders Program with a Certificate of Recognition and a 3 x 5 flag.
6. Finalist will be submitted for public rating and then submission the Salem City Council. 7.​ Final action and adoption by City Council is not guaranteed.
These rules are subject to change by the project committee, any modifications will be published here as soon as possible. 

Thank you to all the supporting organizations and groups!