The Flag of Acre is the official banner of the Brazilian state of Acre, located in the western portion of the Amazon basin. It serves as a civil and state symbol and is used in official capacities, public buildings, and ceremonial occasions throughout the state.
Design and specifications
- Field: The flag consists of a white rectangular field.
- Central emblem: Superimposed on the field is the state coat of arms of Acre, which depicts a stylised representation of the region’s geography, flora, and economic activities. The coat of arms is framed by a thin green border that outlines the flag’s hoist side.
- Proportions: The flag’s official proportion is 7:10 (height to width), as prescribed by state legislation.
Symbolism
- White field: Represents peace and the aspiration for harmonious development within the state.
- Green border: Symbolises the dense Amazon rainforest that covers the majority of Acre’s territory and underscores the importance of environmental preservation.
- Coat of arms: Incorporates elements such as a rubber tree, a river, and a production cog, each denoting the historical and contemporary economic bases of the state (rubber extraction, waterways, and industry).
Legal adoption
The flag was formally adopted by the Legislative Assembly of Acre in 1995 through state law that standardised the flag’s design, colours, and dimensions. The law also established guidelines for its display, ordering that the flag be flown on public buildings alongside the national flag of Brazil.
Historical context
Prior to its integration into Brazil, the region of Acre experienced a brief period of autonomous self‑government known as the Republic of Acre (1899–1903). The Republic employed a distinct flag—a horizontal tricolour of green, white, and red with a central emblem—none of which were retained after the territory became the Brazilian state of Acre. The present flag therefore reflects the modern political status of Acre within the Federative Republic of Brazil while acknowledging its unique regional identity.
Usage
The flag may be displayed alone or in conjunction with the national flag of Brazil, adhering to the protocol stipulated by Brazilian flag regulations. It is commonly seen on government edifices, schools, and during public festivities that celebrate state holidays and cultural events.
References
- State of Acre, Law establishing the flag of the State of Acre (1995).
- Government of Acre, Official symbols of the State of Acre.
Note: The description above reflects information available from official state sources and widely recognised reference works on Brazilian vexillology.