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Is flying the St George’s cross a sign of racism or patriotism? | Letters

Is flying the St George’s cross a sign of racism or patriotism? | Letters

One reader has been subjected to racist abuse, another says there is nothing wrong in expressing affection for one’s country. Plus letters fom Jane Ryan , Michael Pyke and Hugh Coolican Last week in my small rural town, St George’s flags were erected from lamp-posts and crudely daubed on roundabouts and zebra crossings, while residents were subjected to “ Sieg Heil ” as a mob walked along the streets. Downing Street has put out a statement that patriotism is important, while Joanne Monk, the Reform UK leader of Worcestershire city council, also emphasised pride in the flag. I have nothing against the flag per se, but when Nazi thugs use it to demonstrate and catcall, it morphs into something else entirely. As a Black person, I have been subject to abuse three times in the past fortnight. My 12-year-old child and his friend were called “paedos” at school – they are the only Black children in the class – and a friend’s child was called the N-word on the bus (this was before the summer recess). To be Black in the countryside at the moment is to have a target on your back. Continue reading...