Louisiana State Flag

Date adopted: Feb 22, 2010

The flag of Louisiana, often referred to as the Pelican flag, features a blue rectangular field with the image of a white pelican vulning herself in the center. Below the pelican, a white ribbon bears the state motto: "Union Justice Confidence." Officially adopted on July 1, 1912, the flag's design has a historical significance dating back to the 19th century when the brown pelican appeared on various state symbols. However, the design details of the pelican varied over time until legislation in 2006 standardized the image to include "three droops of blood" on the pelican's breast. In 2010, a formal redesign of the flag introduced a more realistic depiction of a brown pelican, still in white, along with specific color and banner changes, all emphasizing the state's unique identity and history.