The Struggle for Scotland's Flag: Analyzing Why the Right Has Taken Up the St. Andrew's Cross

Something has shifted in the Scottish landscape.

St. Andrew's Cross, traditionally supported by supporters of Scottish independence, has currently been waved for a separate purpose.

Across the country, the azure and white of St Andrew is waving from streetlights and being waved alongside the union flag at rallies opposing migration.

Previously those two standards were usually spotted on separate camps of the debate about Scotland's future.

Presently the showing of the Scottish flag is causing debate of its own at protests from Aberdeen to Perth and from Falkirk to Glasgow.

Clashing Patriotisms

This struggle for the Scottish flag is furthermore a struggle concerning what it signifies to be a patriot in modern Scotland - a struggle among competing nationalisms.

Prominent Voices

One prominent activist is among the key voices in these recent protests.

He mixes objection to separation and immigration with sharp criticism of the Scottish National Party.

They claimed the saltire as their property and for over a decade we've allowed them to use it as a weapon of division and animosity.

Alternative Rallies

The crowd - separated from numerous opposing demonstrators by a line of police officers - applauded the criticism of the Scottish National Party.

The party has caused damage on our nation, weakening our economy and our opportunities at all times.

Immigration Issues

Immigration is a persistent problem for the current Prime Minister and appears to be rising up the agenda ahead of the Holyrood elections.

The small boats crisis and the accommodation of asylum seekers in temporary accommodation have fuelled demonstrations around the United Kingdom.

Community Views

One protester, who gave his name as Mark, held a British flag displaying "Stop the Boats".

He claimed authorities should be addressing struggling public systems, not spending taxpayers' money on medical and dental care for asylum seekers.

Alternative Perspectives

Outside the hotel a collection of opposing demonstrators, including many trade unionists, had assembled.

Additionally they were opposed to the government leader – but for separate causes.

Budgetary Issues

Both sides appear to share a attitude of disapproval about Britain's struggling economy and the poor state of government services.

The actual problem in contemporary Britain is the political leaders who are not addressing these problems squarely.

Housing Crisis

An ongoing concern among demonstrators is about the amount of newcomers being accommodated using council funds.

The problem is particularly severe in the western city, which has the UK's highest number of asylum seekers in public housing.

Emblematic Importance

Shawn, a asylum seeker dwelling in northern Glasgow, feels the Scottish flag typically symbolizes tranquility, unity and acceptance.

But he claims it is presently being waved "by right-wing groups and racial prejudice".

Social Consequences

Discussions concerning symbols are not simply happening in Scotland's big cities and blue-collar areas.

In the affluent Renfrewshire town of the Bridge community, the displaying of saltires has created conflict on the neighborhood online forum.

Political Implications

Scotland's First Minister the SNP leader said debates concerning migration were being "fanned by a broader discussion" going on in the United Kingdom and worldwide.

I advocate for a Scottish society that is tolerant, welcoming and inclusive.

Political Future

Surveys preceding May's Holyrood election indicate a significant advantage for the nationalists.

No matter what banners are waved by any political organization in the campaign, border control seems probable to take its place alongside the financial system and government resources as a major concern.