A change has occurred in the Scottish landscape.
The saltire, traditionally supported by pro-independence groups, has now been unfurled for a separate purpose.
Throughout the nation, the blue and white of Saint Andrew is flying from poles and being displayed with the union flag at demonstrations against immigration.
Previously those two standards were more often seen on separate camps of the conversation over Scotland's future.
Currently the saltire's presence is causing debate of its own at demonstrations from across Scottish cities and from Glasgow to Falkirk.
Opposing National Identities
This conflict for the saltire is furthermore a conflict over what it signifies to be a nationalist in modern Scotland - a struggle among competing nationalisms.
Prominent Voices
One prominent activist is a central personality in these current demonstrations.
He blends resistance to independence and migration with sharp criticism of the SNP.
They appropriated the Scottish flag as their own and for many years we've let them to wield it as a instrument of conflict and animosity.
Counter-Protests
The crowd - divided from hundreds of counter-protesters by a line of police officers - cheered the denunciation of the Scottish National Party.
The SNP has wreaked havoc on the country, dismantling our prosperity and our potential at every turn.
Border Control Debates
Immigration is an ongoing issue for the government leader and seems to be increasing up the schedule ahead of the Scottish government elections.
The migrant boat situation and the housing of refugees in hotels have sparked protests around the Britain.
Community Views
A demonstrator, who gave his name as Mark, held a Union Jack displaying "End Channel Crossings".
He claimed politicians should be fixing ailing public services, not spending taxpayers' money on healthcare services for asylum seekers.
Alternative Perspectives
Near the accommodation a gathering of alternative activists, including many trade unionists, had collected.
Additionally they were disapproving of the government leader – but for different reasons.
Financial Worries
Both sides seem to have a feeling of dissatisfaction about the UK's ailing economy and the weak situation of community resources.
The true concern in contemporary Britain is the political leaders who fail to confront these challenges head on.
Shelter Problems
An ongoing concern among demonstrators is about the amount of newcomers being accommodated using council funds.
The problem is especially serious in the western city, which has the UK's highest number of refugees in council accommodation.
Emblematic Importance
Shawn, a asylum seeker dwelling in northern Glasgow, believes the Scottish flag typically symbolizes calm, agreement and integration.
Yet he says it is currently being displayed "by right-wing groups and racial prejudice".
Community Impact
Arguments over emblems are not simply happening in Scotland's big cities and blue-collar areas.
In the wealthy Renfrewshire community of the Bridge community, the raising of Scottish flags has caused controversy on the local Facebook group.
Political Implications
Scotland's First Minister the SNP leader said arguments about immigration were being "fueled by a wider debate" going on in the UK and around the globe.
I advocate for a Scottish community that is accepting, hospitable and embracing.
Voting Possibilities
Surveys preceding May's Holyrood election indicate a substantial margin for the nationalists.
No matter what banners are waved by whichever party in the election campaign, immigration seems probable to take its place alongside the economy and public services as a big issue.
