New York State Motto Change: The Narrowing of “Excelsior” to “Excelsior e Pluribus Unum” — A Symbolic Shift with Political Consequences
In April 2020, the state of New York passed the 2021 budget, which quietly but significantly altered the state’s long-standing motto. The change introduced “E Pluribus Unum” as a secondary motto beneath “Excelsior” on the state’s coat of arms and flag, replacing the state’s singular, bold declaration with a new, dual-purpose motto. This move, while largely symbolic, reflects broader shifts in American political discourse. But the real question is: does this change represent progress, or is it a calculated political maneuver, executed without adequate public discourse?
From the Heights of “Excelsior” to the Downsize of “Excelsior e Pluribus Unum”
For over two centuries, New York’s motto “Excelsior” has stood tall and unchallenged, an emblem of the state’s relentless pursuit of progress, innovation, and, perhaps most importantly, individualism. The Latin phrase translates to “Ever Upward,” evoking a sense of ambition and movement. It’s a motto that resonated with the state’s rich history of industrial growth, technological innovation, and pioneering spirit. The stark simplicity of “Excelsior” was more than just a slogan; it was a reflection of the aspirations of the state itself.
However, in 2020, this proud motto was altered to incorporate “E Pluribus Unum” — “Out of Many, One.” While “Excelsior” remains the primary phrase, the introduction of “E Pluribus Unum” beneath it has watered down the singularity and force of the original state motto. At first glance, the addition of this national motto may seem like a unifying gesture, aligning the state’s identity with the broader American ideal of unity in diversity. Yet, it’s hard to ignore the impact of such a symbolic shift.
In essence, the motto change reflects a diminishment of the state’s once towering ideal. By placing “E Pluribus Unum” beneath “Excelsior,” the motto no longer solely champions upward motion and individual success but instead tethers it to a national ideal of unity. The result is a narrowing of the state’s identity, obscuring the bold message of “Excelsior” with a broader, more diluted political statement. The state’s motto, once a shining beacon of ambition, is now shared space with a national motto, marking the start of a more collectivist identity — one that may not resonate with the state’s rich individualistic history.
The Quiet Shift: A Decision Made Without Broad Public Debate
The manner in which this change was executed — tucked into the April 2020 state budget without a wide public discussion or referendum — raises serious questions about the democratic process behind such significant alterations to state symbols. While many states have gone through lengthy deliberations and public debates before changing their mottos, New York’s change was enacted under the radar, with little input from the people.
Governor Andrew Cuomo, at the time in office, and a legislature controlled by the Democratic Party moved forward with the motto change as part of the 2021 budgetary process. This method of implementation effectively bypassed any broad public discussion or the involvement of voters. In a state as politically and culturally diverse as New York, it’s hard to justify why such a change was not put before the people — or at the very least, given more time for public debate.
The lack of referendum or a public vote is particularly notable in a state that prides itself on being a model of democratic participation. While it’s true that state symbols and mottos often fall under the purview of government officials, the absence of public engagement in this process feels like an attempt to impose a narrative without allowing the people to weigh in. This is especially true in a time when many people in New York were grappling with more pressing issues, like the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Why Was This Done, and What Does It Mean?
The inclusion of “E Pluribus Unum” could certainly be interpreted as an effort to unify the state, especially following the divisiveness of the Trump years and during a global pandemic. But the irony lies in the fact that the change came from a single-party government with little apparent desire to engage the state’s diverse political landscape in the decision. The Democratic Party, having full control of the state government, used its power to shape the identity of New York in a way that may not reflect the views or interests of all its residents.
Politically, it’s hard to ignore the symbolism embedded in this move. The motto “E Pluribus Unum” is an ideal that many Democrats have embraced as a symbol of national unity, particularly in the face of increasing polarization. By positioning this motto alongside “Excelsior,” the decision feels like an attempt to align New York more directly with this broader, national sentiment. However, the way this shift was made — with minimal public debate — may suggest that this was more about political messaging than about fostering genuine unity or dialogue.
Moreover, by choosing not to involve the public in this decision-making process, the state has further narrowed the scope of its political discourse. New York’s identity is not solely defined by its motto, but symbols matter. The decision to make such a sweeping change without a referendum reflects a pattern where state government, rather than engaging with the public, makes unilateral decisions based on political expediency.
Conclusion: A Missed Opportunity for Meaningful Dialogue
The modification of New York’s state motto from “Excelsior” to “Excelsior e Pluribus Unum” may have been an attempt to unify the state under a broader, national ideal. However, the decision to implement this change quietly, without broad public discussion or input, raises serious concerns about the erosion of democratic principles. “Excelsior” represented the ambitious, upward-looking nature of New York, a state of innovators and risk-takers. The new motto, now shared with the national motto, dims that legacy.
New York’s motto is no longer as singular or as bold as it once was, and its state symbols have been subtly recalibrated to align more with national identity than with the unique spirit of the Empire State. By skipping the referendum and public debate, Governor Cuomo and the state legislature missed an opportunity to open up a meaningful dialogue about what New York’s identity should be — especially at a time when so much of the state’s future hangs in the balance.
As New Yorkers reflect on this change, one thing is clear: the state’s motto, now forever changed, is a reminder of how symbols can shift not only through time but through political power, too. And for better or worse, this decision was made without the input of the people it represents.
In the end, the change from “Excelsior” to “Excelsior e Pluribus Unum” under Governor Cuomo represents more than just a shift in state symbols; it’s a reflection of political and ideological currents that shaped his tenure. However, with Cuomo’s departure from office amidst serious allegations and the ascension of Governor Kathy Hochul, there’s an opportunity for reflection. Should the state’s lawmakers and Governor Hochul consider restoring the bold, aspirational “Excelsior” to its rightful place on New York’s seal and flag? A return to the original motto could serve as a symbol of New York’s enduring spirit of progress, independence, and ambition — qualities that have long defined the Empire State.
With the weight of history and the aspirations of future generations in mind, perhaps it’s time for a new chapter — one where New York’s motto truly reflects the strength and resilience of its people. Could “Excelsior” once again stand as a beacon of the state’s future, untethered by the compromises of the past?