‘Compassion is stronger than division’: Glasgow’s battle over the saltire

<p>Scotland’s national flag has become a flashpoint in a growing cultural battle linked to anti-immigration sentiment. In the racially diverse Springburn area of Glasgow, people fear a storm is gathering and refuse to let it pass unchallenged</p><p>In recent weeks, the streets of north and east Glasgow have been lined with saltires. Scotland’s national flag – rooted in the story of Saint Andrew’s martyrdom and long a symbol of resilience and pride – <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2025/sep/06/reclaim-our-flag-saltire-cultural-battleground-tensions-asylum-housing">has become a flashpoint in a growing cultural battle</a>. Flags have been raised as part of a UK-wide action, known as “raise the colours”, amid protests against housing asylum seekers in hotels and rising far-right activity.</p><p>Saltire flags in Springburn</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2025/oct/13/compassion-stronger-than-division-glasgow-battle-over-saltire-picture-essay">Continue reading...</a>