A transformation has taken place in the Scottish landscape.
The saltire, historically adopted by supporters of Scottish independence, has recently been displayed for a alternative movement.
Across the country, the azure and white of Saint Andrew is fluttering from lampposts and being waved alongside the union flag at anti-immigration protests.
Previously those two flags were usually spotted on different sides of the discussion regarding Scotland's future.
Currently the saltire's presence is generating controversy of its own at demonstrations from Perth to Aberdeen and from Glasgow to Falkirk.
Opposing National Identities
This battle for Scotland's flag is additionally a battle about what it means to be a patriot in today's Scotland - a battle of competing nationalisms.
Prominent Voices
Steven Rennie is among the key voices in these current demonstrations.
He combines resistance to independence and migration with sharp criticism of the SNP.
They claimed our national flag as their own and for 12 long years we've permitted them to use it as a tool of separation and hostility.
Counter-Protests
The gathering - separated from many alternative rally participants by a line of police officers - applauded the criticism of the Scottish National Party.
The SNP has wreaked havoc on our nation, dismantling our prosperity and our potential at each opportunity.
Border Control Debates
Border control is an ongoing issue for the government leader and appears to be rising up the priority list ahead of the Scottish government elections.
The small boats crisis and the accommodation of asylum seekers in emergency housing have triggered rallies around the United Kingdom.
Local Perspectives
An activist, who identified himself as Mark, held a Union Jack emblazoned with "End Channel Crossings".
He said authorities should be addressing failing government services, not allocating citizen resources on medical and dental care for asylum seekers.
Alternative Perspectives
At the temporary housing a group of counter-protesters, including many trade unionists, had gathered.
Additionally they were disapproving of the prime minister – but for separate causes.
Economic Concerns
Both sides seem to have a feeling of dissatisfaction about the UK's ailing economy and the poor state of government services.
The real issue in contemporary Britain is the elected officials who fail to confront these challenges head on.
Shelter Problems
An ongoing concern among demonstrators is about the amount of newcomers being housed at local authority expense.
The situation is particularly severe in Scotland's largest city, which has the Britain's largest quantity of migrants in government shelter.
Representative Significance
Shawn, a asylum seeker dwelling in Glasgow's north side, believes the saltire usually represents peace, harmony and inclusion.
Yet he states it is now being flown "for extremist elements and racial prejudice".
Social Consequences
Discussions concerning symbols are not only occurring in large Scottish municipalities and blue-collar areas.
In the affluent Renfrewshire town of Bridge of Weir, the hoisting of saltires has caused controversy on the local Facebook group.
Policy Ramifications
Scotland's First Minister John Swinney said debates concerning migration were being "fanned by a larger conversation" 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 show a substantial margin for the nationalists.
Whatever flags are waved by whichever party in the campaign, migration looks set to take its place alongside the budget and community services as a significant topic.
