Simon Koziol
1. How does the flag you designed represent who you are and what you care about?
My flag symbolizes two important traits/values, that is, 1. Perseverance and 2. Understanding. Through these two traits this flag represents me as I persevere through life’s many challenges, and also try to understand different aspects of life and the people who exist in it. In that way my flag embodies my philosophy, my soul, and my creativity as a human being.
2. Why did you decide to join the Flag 2021 competition?
Through the centuries, people have united under flags or symbols to face the challenges of the day. My hope is that this flag would be able to heal the wounds of our society and bring people together under one goal; Prosperity for all.
3. What did you learn about Cook County that surprised you?
An observation that I made throughout the journey of creating this flag is seeing how important and expansive the roles that Cook County fulfils, so that the average citizen would be able to thrive.
4. Tell us a short story about your collaboration with your flag mentor/partner(s). (3-5 sentences)
I remember a particular moment in which my mentor Mr. McNamara, recommended switching my original flags six-pointed star to a seven pointed star. The reason was to show familiarity with the Chicago City flag, yet staying original. In that particular moment a lightbulb when off in which the many ideas for the flag came and allowed me and my mentor to create the flag you are currently looking at right now. Something familiar, but also something original.