A new campaign aims to reclaim the St George’s Cross and St George’s Day from far-right groups, arguing that both symbols should represent modern, diverse England. The initiative, inspired by a quote from Zadie Smith, calls for a digital movement under the hashtag #StretchTheFlag.
The campaigner, Poppy Noor, says that national pride has been co-opted by extremists for too long. “With Brexit and the current political climate, England feels vulnerable,” she writes. “It would be a great signal of unity for the centre and left to take up national pride and not be scared of saying they’re proud of England.”
Noor points to the 2018 World Cup as a moment of unity when people felt comfortable flying the flag. “We were in it together, just really wanting England to win,” she says. “I want to build on that moment, so people don’t feel it’s only during sporting events that we’re allowed to be patriotic.”
The campaign proposes inclusive street parties, social media videos featuring public figures, and encouraging neighbours to celebrate together. Community organiser Sara Bryson advises focusing on people power and understanding different demographics’ views. “Building a campaign isn’t just mobilising people,” she says. “It’s about approaching people with humility and listening to what they want.”
Noor hopes to stretch the definition of Englishness to include people from all backgrounds. “Tolerant, diverse England doesn’t have a symbol to represent it,” she notes. “The far-right voice is so loud right now that unless we do something, it will take this moment for its own.”
