During a recent Calgary city council meeting, an urgent motion proposing a discussion on banning the raising of national flags at city hall was narrowly defeated. The motion, presented by Ward 13 Coun. Dan McLean, aimed to address amendments to Calgary’s flag policy during a scheduled public hearing as a matter of urgency. The proposed changes included the elimination of provisions allowing the display of foreign flags at the city hall.
McLean highlighted that what was once a symbol of unity has now sparked discord within the community, leading to the motion being brought forward. Despite the defeat of the urgent motion by a close vote of 8-7, discussions mainly revolved around the immediacy of the proposal rather than the specific amendments suggested.
Mayor Jeromy Farkas, a prominent supporter of the ban on national flags at city hall, emphasized the importance of addressing the issue promptly to ensure a fair decision-making process. He expressed concerns that delaying the motion could result in a flood of additional flag-raising requests under the existing regulations, creating inconsistencies and potential controversies.
Farkas also pointed out that upcoming flag-raising ceremonies for Bosnia and Herzegovina and Albania were still on the calendar for later in the month, underscoring the need for a clear policy to avoid disparities and criticisms.
According to the mayor’s office, Calgary city hall has flown 36 national flags so far this year. While Coun. Jennifer Wyness, who opposed the motion, questioned its urgency and underlying political motives, other council members like Nathaniel Schmidt emphasized the importance of consulting with diverse stakeholders to ensure inclusive decision-making.
Despite the setback, McLean intends to reintroduce the motion at the council’s executive committee in the future to address the contentious issue of national flag displays at Calgary city hall.