A change has occurred in Scotland.
St. Andrew's Cross, historically adopted by supporters of Scottish independence, has now been unfurled for a alternative movement.
Throughout the nation, the azure and white of St Andrew is flying from poles and being displayed with the union flag at rallies opposing migration.
In the past those two flags were more often seen on separate camps of the discussion regarding Scotland's future.
Now the showing of the Scottish flag is causing debate of its own at protests from Aberdeen to Perth and from Falkirk to Glasgow.
Competing Nationalisms
This battle for the saltire is additionally a conflict over what it represents to be a nationalist in today's Scotland - a struggle among competing nationalisms.
Key Figures
A leading figure is one of the prominent figures in these recent protests.
He blends objection to separation and migration with harsh critique of the SNP.
They seized the Scottish flag as their own and for many years we've permitted them to use it as a weapon of division and hate.
Opposing Demonstrations
The gathering - separated from numerous opposing demonstrators by a line of police officers - cheered the denunciation of the national party.
The SNP has wreaked havoc on the country, undermining our wealth and our opportunities at every turn.
Border Control Debates
Border control is an ongoing issue for Labour Prime Minister and appears to be rising up the priority list ahead of the Scottish parliamentary elections.
The small boats crisis and the housing of refugees in emergency housing have triggered rallies around the UK.
Community Views
A demonstrator, who gave his name as Mark, held a union flag displaying "End Channel Crossings".
He claimed politicians should be fixing struggling public systems, not using public funds on medical treatment for asylum seekers.
Alternative Perspectives
Outside the hotel a gathering of alternative activists, including numerous union members, had collected.
They also were opposed to the prime minister – but for different reasons.
Financial Worries
The opposing groups seem to have a sense of disgust about the nation's weak finances and the weak situation of community resources.
The true concern in modern society is the elected officials who fail to confront these challenges squarely.
Shelter Problems
An ongoing concern among activists is about the number of migrants being housed at local authority expense.
The issue is most acute in Glasgow, which has the UK's highest number of refugees in council accommodation.
Emblematic Importance
Shawn, a migrant residing in north Glasgow, thinks the Scottish flag typically symbolizes calm, agreement and integration.
But he claims it is currently being displayed "for extremist elements and discrimination".
Public Effect
Discussions concerning symbols are not only occurring in large Scottish municipalities and blue-collar areas.
In the prosperous Renfrewshire village of the Weir Bridge area, the hoisting of saltires has created conflict on the neighborhood online forum.
Political Implications
Scotland's First Minister John Swinney said debates concerning migration were being "fueled by a wider debate" going on in the United Kingdom and worldwide.
I advocate for a Scotland that is open-minded, receptive and comprehensive.
Political Future
Research before May's Holyrood election indicate a significant advantage for the Scottish National Party.
No matter what banners are displayed by whatever political group in the political race, border control appears likely to assume its position alongside the economy and public services as a major concern.
