Understanding the Hawaiian Flag in the Eyes of Americans

When the topic of the Hawaiian flag comes up, many Americans, especially those outside of Hawaii, may be confused or unaware of its significance. This article delves into how the Hawaiian flag is perceived by Americans, particularly with two distinct viewpoints: as a symbol of statehood and as a symbol of Hawaiian sovereignty.

The Hawaiian Flag as a Symbol of Statehood

For many Americans, the Hawaiian flag is simply the official flag of the state of Hawaii, which was admitted as the 50th state of the United States in 1959. This flag, also known as the `Canton-on-Canton' flag, consists of two overlapping squares: the upper left square features the Union Jack of the former British colony, while the lower right square is the red, white, and blue horizontal tricolor representing the American nation. Despite its simplicity, this flag holds a special place in the hearts of many Hawaiians and Americans who visit the islands.

Identification and Recognition

A 2023 survey indicates that only 5% to 10% of Americans outside of Hawaii can identify the state flag of Hawaii. This lack of recognition highlights the fact that state flags are often not top-of-mind items for most Americans. The authors of this article, for instance, only know the flags of Louisiana and have no knowledge of the state flags of their neighboring states such as Mississippi, Texas, or Arkansas, though they are well-versed in flags from Europe, Asia, and parts of the former USSR.

The Hawaiian Flag as a Symbol of Sovereignty

On the other hand, for Native Hawaiians and those who advocate for Hawaiian sovereignty, the Hawaiian flag is not just a symbol of statehood but also a flag of resistance. They view the current flag as a representation of the independent Kingdom of Hawaii that existed before U.S. annexation in 1898. For them, the flag is a potent symbol of Hawaiian identity and a reminder of their struggle for self-determination and independence.

Controversy and Calls for Change

There are voices within the American populace who find the Hawaiian flag to be less than ideal. One such opinion is that it "sucks" and should be changed because of its similarities to the British Union Jack, which contradicts the idea of Hawaiian sovereignty. This viewpoint suggests that incorporating the Union Jack is an insult to the revolutionary history of the United States and to the sacrifice of US soldiers in the Revolutionary War. It is argued that the flag should reflect a more unique and less derivative design, similar to how Mississippi recently changed its state flag.

Conclusion

Given these contrasting views, the Hawaiian flag remains a complex symbol for both Hawaiians and Americans. While for some it represents a state proudly integrated into the United States, for others it evokes the struggle for sovereignty. Regardless of the perspective, the Hawaiian flag continues to hold a significant place in the cultural and political landscape of Hawaii and the United States.