Alaska's State Seal: Time for a Refresh?

Alaska's state seal is 70 years old. But does it truly represent what Alaska is today? State seals are like a state's logo, appearing on ballots, official papers, and even the walls of the capitol building.

A History of the Seal

• Original Design: The seal once featured Indigenous people fishing and hunting.
• 1910 Change: The territorial governor removed the Indigenous people and replaced them with images of mining, timber, seafood, and farming.
• Current Seal: Still in use today, it includes a smoking ore smelter, despite Alaska not having any operational smelters.

Should the Seal Be Updated?

• Indigenous Representation: Indigenous people were the first inhabitants of Alaska. Shouldn't they be represented on the seal?
• Economic Shifts: The seal doesn't reflect Alaska's oil industry, which has contributed over $300 billion to the state.
• Inspiration from the Flag: Benny Benson designed Alaska's flag in 1927 as a symbol of hope for the future. The seal should do the same—representing all Alaskans and the state's past, present, and future.

Time for a Change?

With Alaska's 70th anniversary of statehood approaching in 2029, is it time for a new state seal? What do you think? Should Alaska have a new seal? And if so, what should it look like?