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A change has occurred in Scotland.

The saltire, which was long embraced by independence advocates, has recently been displayed for a alternative movement.

Across the country, the azure and white of Saint Andrew is waving from streetlights and being waved alongside the union flag at demonstrations against immigration.

Previously those two symbols were usually spotted on different sides of the conversation over Scotland's future.

Presently the saltire's presence is generating controversy of its own at rallies from Aberdeen to Perth and from Glasgow to Falkirk.

Opposing National Identities

This conflict for the saltire is additionally a battle about what it represents to be a loyal citizen in contemporary Scotland - a struggle among clashing national identities.

Key Figures

One prominent activist is among the key voices in these ongoing rallies.

He mixes resistance to independence and migration with harsh critique of the Scottish National Party.

They seized the Scottish flag as their own and for 12 long years we've permitted them to use it as a weapon of division and animosity.

Counter-Protests

The gathering - kept apart from numerous opposing demonstrators by a barrier of law enforcement - supported the condemnation of the Scottish National Party.

The nationalists have created chaos on the country, dismantling our prosperity and our potential at every turn.

Immigration Issues

Immigration is an ongoing issue for Labour Prime Minister and seems to be increasing up the agenda ahead of the Scottish government elections.

The channel crossing issue and the accommodation of asylum seekers in temporary accommodation have sparked protests around the Britain.

Regional Opinions

An activist, who called himself Mark, held a British flag emblazoned with "End Channel Crossings".

He claimed authorities should be addressing struggling public systems, not using public funds on medical and dental care for migrants.

Alternative Perspectives

Near the accommodation a group of counter-protesters, including several labor representatives, had assembled.

They also were critical of the PM – but for separate causes.

Economic Concerns

The opposing groups appear to share a sense of disgust about the UK's ailing economy and the weak situation of public services.

The actual problem in contemporary Britain is the political leaders who are not addressing these issues head on.

Accommodation Shortage

One recurring complaint among protesters is about the amount of newcomers being accommodated using council funds.

The situation is most acute in Scotland's largest city, which has the the nation's biggest amount of asylum seekers in public housing.

Representative Significance

Shawn, a asylum seeker dwelling in northern Glasgow, believes the saltire usually represents tranquility, unity and acceptance.

However he claims it is presently being waved "for extremist elements and racism".

Public Effect

Arguments over emblems are not only occurring in major Scottish urban centers and working class towns.

In the affluent Renfrewshire town of the Bridge community, the raising of Scottish flags has led to a row on the local Facebook group.

Policy Ramifications

The Scottish leader John Swinney said debates concerning migration were being "fanned by a wider debate" going on in the Britain and internationally.

I believe in a Scotland that is open-minded, receptive and comprehensive.

Voting Possibilities

Polls ahead of May's Holyrood election suggest a significant advantage for the Scottish National Party.

Whatever flags are shown by any political organization in the election campaign, border control appears likely to take its place alongside the financial system and government resources as a significant topic.