The current flag of Calgary was designed in 1975, a time when Calgary, and the world, was a much different place. Changes in our awareness of indigenous values, ethnic and cultural diversity and respect for the environment have changed for the better over the last forty years and Calgary needs a flag that reflects these changes.
A flag for our city
Since antiquity we have been united and inspired by flags. On every continent, in every culture, flags have given us the courage for battle and the determination to accomplish the impossible. We draw strength from our flags. In times of trouble they comfort us and give us hope.
Not long after he was elected, former Mayor Naheed Nenshi challenged all Calgarians to work together and proactively take initiatives to make the city better. For our initiative we offer the city a new flag, rooted in our city’s unique geography and history. A flag that exemplifies the spirit and energy of Calgary.
We propose this with respect, recognizing that Calgary has an official flag. And, if that flag was a source of pride and motivation to Calgarians, we would not suggest that it be replaced. But, in the four decades since it was adopted, the design has not taken hold in the imagination of our citizens.
It’s time for a flag that works.
A flag for our time
Calgary’s current flag was designed in 1975 through an open competition to mark the centennial of Calgary’s founding. In the 38 years since it was officially adopted the flags’ presence throughout the city has been sparse and inconspicuous. It is rarely seen at civic engagements or public events. It is seldom used for celebration or ceremony.
A new flag is needed to better represent Calgary in the 21st century and beyond. The Flag for Calgary team have offered their design expertise to create a lasting symbol to represent this great city.
Since the adoption of the current flag in the early 1980’s, Calgary has changed considerably. The population has grown from just under 500,000 to 1.3 million today and it continues to grow at an astounding pace. Calgary’s presence on the world stage has become increasingly prominent and has gained a reputation as a rapidly developing and evolving cosmopolitan city. In the past 40 years, Calgary has become a much more sophisticated, progressive and dynamic city. Calgary needs a flag that proudly displays this to all Calgarians and to the world.