If flags of this nation offend people then those they offend should leave this country, either embrace our culture and heritage or get out of the country!
North Wales Live readers are pleased that attempts to remove Welsh flags from lampposts across Wrexham have failed despite claims from campaigners that they intimidate minority communities.
Former North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner Arfon Jones lodged a complaint with Wrexham Council, arguing that the flags create fear and intimidation and may distract motorists. A petition by the group Lower The Flags Wrexham, which has gathered around 400 signatures, also called for their removal.
Supporters say the Welsh flag is simply an expression of national pride and reject attempts to portray it as a symbol of hate or division.
Jones argues that the increase in flag displays followed controversy over plans to house asylum seekers in Rhosllanerchrugog and claims the council is failing in its duty to protect vulnerable communities. Similar concerns have been raised by Race Council Cymru hate crime officer Iolanda Banu Viegas, who says some immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers feel unwelcome and intimidated by the displays.
Wrexham Council investigated the complaint but said it would only remove flags if they created an obstruction or safety hazard. The council stated it takes all concerns seriously, remains impartial, and will continue to review any evidence of intimidation. Jones has described the council's response as a whitewash.
Commenter Wellyboot26 says: “I love seeing national flags flying. It's not racist at all. The patriotism when the Urdd or Eisteddfod is on is a wonderful sight to see. People should be allowed to fly whatever flag they want without fear of recrimination.”
Ja1985 agrees: “I moved here from England over 20 years ago, my girls were born here, I love seeing the Welsh flag flying! In fact it’s one thing I really admire about Wales is their patriotism!”
Sedgley99 adds: “I’m English, lived in Wales over 15 years, why shouldn't the Welsh flag be flying? We are in Wales! Keep them flags flying in Wales. It's a great sight.”
Caver13 thinks: “Leave the Welsh flag alone. It is neither offensive nor intimidating. People need to recognise that displaying a national, regional, or local flag is a common expression of pride and identity. Across the world, countries, regions, cantons, and states proudly display their flags without causing offence. The Welsh flag is no different, it's a symbol of heritage, culture, and pride, not something to be condemned.”
Mennestdoor writes: “I am English, as is my partner, and I have lived in Wales for 40 years. At no point have I ever felt intimidated by the Welsh flag. It's also worth remembering that Welsh people are a minority within the UK, so I think it's unfair to portray expressions of Welsh identity and pride in a negative light. If you love Wales, why not celebrate its culture and heritage? The Welsh flag is a magnificent symbol, and the Red Dragon is one of the most iconic national emblems in the world. Flying the Welsh flag is not a racist act. It represents history, culture, and national pride. As far as I am aware, it has never been adopted as a symbol by far-right groups. Most people simply see it as a proud expression of Welsh identity.”
Jeff2509 feels differently: “I am Welsh speaking, pro-Independence for Wales, Welsh through and through, but I can not abide the flag wagging culture creeping into our country. Let the English nationalists festoon their lamp posts and streets with cheap Chinese flags and make their land look like a giant sink estate during a World Cup campaign. We do not need that to know who we are and to be proud of it.”
Espritouvert agrees: “Being Welsh and proud is fine, but being Welsh and Insular is not beneficial to Wales.”
Specul8 writes: “Some people dislike the Welsh flag because it features a mythical dragon. I find that hard to understand. The Red Dragon is a proud symbol of Welsh history, culture, and identity. The Welsh flag is not a symbol of hate, division, or oppression. It represents heritage, pride, and a warm welcome to Wales. Generations have lived under it and made sacrifices in its name, and that deserves respect. I have no problem seeing the Welsh flag flown anywhere. The more it is displayed, the better. Be proud of it and embrace what it stands for. Do not politicise it to fit a particular narrative. It is, and always has been, a symbol of Wales and its people.”
Getting annoyed now points out: “Go down Porthmadog main street and almost every shop has a Welsh flag flying above it. I have never ever heard any tourist say they 'feel intimidated' . It's the Welsh national flag. Let it fly.”
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