Skokie Mayor Ann Tennes spoke to a small gathering outside the village hall, with a beautifully designed flag waving in the sunlight nearby. She expressed gratitude to the 80 contributors who took part in designing the flag, the 700 residents who voted on the finalists, and many others involved in its creation.
Buddy Boor, who designed the winning flag, shared his journey moving from Chicago to Skokie with his wife Chelsea. They were pleasantly surprised by the community’s warmth, which inspired Boor to design the flag. While considering various symbols for Skokie, Boor realized the true essence of the village lies in its people.
The flag features a flame design inspired by the stained glass art in village hall, created in 1978 by Joe Folise. This art marked the community’s unity against a neo-Nazi group threatening to march in Skokie, where many Holocaust survivors lived. Boor emphasized that the flame also represents the early Potawatomie tribe, known as keepers of the fire, maintaining ties to the area’s indigenous history.
The flag serves as a beacon, representing Skokie’s diverse and welcoming nature, highlighting the village’s melting-pot identity. After the flag-raising, Boor reflected on his hope to fulfill the community’s spirit in the design.
Mayor Tennes remarked that the flag is a symbol of unity and strength. She emphasized Skokie’s commitment to being an example of kindness and respect, urging everyone to support this endeavor.
The Flag Review Panel included:
- Michelle Beatrice, art educator at Skokie School District 73.5
- Ami Koenig, Ami Koenig Design
- Randy Payne, Randy Payne Design
- Pam Sloan, artist and Village of Skokie Fine Arts Commission member
- Patrick Deignan, Village communications and engagement director
- Meredith Gioia, communications manager and Fine Arts Commission staff liaison
- Patrick Biederer, Village Building & Inspection Services, artist