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Something has shifted in the Scottish landscape.

St. Andrew's Cross, historically adopted by pro-independence groups, has recently been displayed for a alternative movement.

Across the country, the azure and white of St Andrew is fluttering from lampposts and being shown beside the Union Jack at rallies opposing migration.

Previously those two symbols were more often seen on separate camps of the conversation over Scotland's future.

Now the display of the saltire is sparking disagreement of its own at protests from across Scottish cities and from throughout central Scotland.

Opposing National Identities

This conflict for Scotland's flag is furthermore a battle about what it means to be a patriot in contemporary Scotland - a struggle among clashing national identities.

Key Figures

Steven Rennie is one of the prominent figures in these recent protests.

He mixes opposition to independence and migration with strong condemnation of the Scottish National Party.

They claimed the Scottish flag as their symbol and for over a decade we've allowed them to use it as a tool of separation and animosity.

Opposing Demonstrations

The crowd - separated from numerous opposing demonstrators by a line of police officers - supported the condemnation of the SNP.

The SNP has wreaked havoc on the country, dismantling our prosperity and our potential at each opportunity.

Border Control Debates

Border control is a persistent problem for the current Prime Minister and appears to be rising up the agenda ahead of the Holyrood elections.

The channel crossing issue and the housing of refugees in emergency housing have triggered rallies around the UK.

Regional Opinions

One protester, who gave his name as Mark, held a British flag showing "End Channel Crossings".

He stated government should be repairing ailing public services, not using public funds on healthcare services for refugees.

Alternative Perspectives

At the temporary housing a group of counter-protesters, including several labor representatives, had assembled.

They too were critical of the government leader – but for alternative motivations.

Economic Concerns

Both sides look to possess a attitude of disapproval about the nation's weak finances and the bad condition of public services.

The real issue in our society is the elected officials who are not addressing these issues head on.

Accommodation Shortage

A frequent grievance among activists is about the number of migrants being sheltered through taxpayer money.

The situation is most acute in Glasgow, which has the Britain's largest quantity of migrants in government shelter.

Emblematic Importance

One refugee, a migrant residing in north Glasgow, thinks the St. Andrew's Cross generally signifies calm, agreement and integration.

But he says it is now being flown "by right-wing groups and racism".

Social Consequences

Discussions concerning symbols are not only occurring in Scotland's big cities and working class towns.

In the wealthy Renfrewshire village of the Bridge community, the displaying of saltires has caused controversy on the neighborhood online forum.

Policy Ramifications

The Scottish leader the SNP leader said discussions regarding border control were being "fanned by a broader discussion" going on in the UK and around the globe.

I support a Scotland that is tolerant, welcoming and inclusive.

Election Prospects

Polls ahead of the Scottish parliamentary election show a significant advantage for the SNP.

Whatever flags are displayed by whichever party in the campaign, border control looks set to take its place alongside the budget and community services as a big issue.