The Battle for Scotland's Flag: Analyzing Why the Right Has Embraced the Saltire
A change has occurred in the Scottish landscape.
The saltire, historically adopted by independence advocates, has recently been displayed for a alternative movement.
Up and down the land, the blue and white of Saint Andrew is fluttering from lampposts and being displayed with the Union Jack at demonstrations against immigration.
Previously those two symbols were typically observed on opposing sides of the debate about Scotland's future.
Presently the saltire's presence is sparking disagreement of its own at demonstrations from Aberdeen to Perth and from Glasgow to Falkirk.
Clashing Patriotisms
This struggle for Scotland's flag is additionally a battle about what it signifies to be a patriot in contemporary Scotland - a conflict between opposing patriotisms.
Key Figures
A leading figure is a central personality in these recent protests.
He mixes opposition to independence and migration with sharp criticism of the national party.
They appropriated the saltire as their own and for 12 long years we've let them to wield it as a instrument of conflict and hostility.
Alternative Rallies
The crowd - separated from numerous opposing demonstrators by a cordoning of police - applauded the criticism of the SNP.
The nationalists have created chaos on Scotland, undermining our wealth and our opportunities at all times.
Immigration Issues
Immigration is a persistent problem for the government leader and seems to be increasing up the priority list ahead of the Scottish parliamentary elections.
The channel crossing issue and the sheltering of migrants in hotels have sparked protests around the UK.
Regional Opinions
An activist, who called himself Mark, held a union flag displaying "Stop the Boats".
He claimed government should be repairing ailing public services, not allocating citizen resources on healthcare services for migrants.
Counter-Arguments
Outside the hotel a group of counter-protesters, including several labor representatives, had assembled.
They also were critical of the government leader – but for different reasons.
Budgetary Issues
The opposing groups appear to share a attitude of disapproval about Britain's struggling economy and the poor state of public services.
The actual problem in our society is the elected officials who fail to confront these issues head on.
Housing Crisis
An ongoing concern among activists is about the quantity of immigrants being housed at local authority expense.
The problem is most acute in Scotland's largest city, which has the UK's highest number of refugees in council accommodation.
Symbolic Meaning
One refugee, a refugee who lives in Glasgow's north side, feels the St. Andrew's Cross generally signifies peace, harmony and inclusion.
However he states it is currently being displayed "by right-wing groups and racial prejudice".
Public Effect
Discussions concerning symbols are not just raging in large Scottish municipalities and industrial communities.
In the affluent Renfrewshire village of Bridge of Weir, the raising of Scottish flags has led to a row on the local Facebook group.
Political Implications
The government head the First Minister said arguments about immigration were being "fanned by a broader discussion" going on in the UK and around the globe.
I advocate for a Scottish society that is tolerant, welcoming and inclusive.
Voting Possibilities
Surveys preceding May's Holyrood election suggest a substantial margin for the Scottish National Party.
No matter what banners are displayed by whichever party in the election campaign, border control looks set to claim its role alongside the financial system and government resources as a major concern.
