It was a moment of unity.

Recent times have been polarizing and divided for many Americans. Political and social vitriol has been a staple of American life over the last few years, but especially in the year 2020.

For Mississippians, however, a symbol of hope and unity has brought the state together.

That symbol made its first public appearance in front of a large audience on Saturday when Starkville native Kobe Jones led his Mississippi State teammates with the new Mississippi state flag in hand.

“That moment meant a lot to me,” Jones said. “First of all, it was a huge honor to be asked to carry the flag. I was just very proud to be able to wave a flag that unites all Mississippians. It was a huge moment for me personally and for the whole state.”

The state flag has been a hot topic for years in Mississippi. A statewide vote to change the flag in 2001 was unsuccessful. Following this past summer’s events, the state flag was brought back into the discussion. Due in part to the words of former Mississippi State running back Kylin Hill, plus a gathering of many college coaches throughout the state at the capitol in Jackson, the old flag was abolished and the new flag was designed. It was passed on Tuesday.

For Jones and his fellow native Mississippians, it was a monumental occasion.

“It was just a proud moment. I feel like it was one moment that everyone in Mississippi could come together on. It was just a big honor for me.”