St George’s Cross must not be used to ‘intimidate others’, says Church of England
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St George's Cross flags painted on zebra crossing in York
Seven leading Church of England bishops have called for the St George's cross to be a 'symbol of unity', warning against its use to intimidate others.
The bishops criticised the growing trend of far-right groups, including 'Raise the Colours' and figures like Tommy Robinson, co-opting Christian symbols for anti-migrant sentiment.
They highlighted that this misuse of symbols, including the St George's cross and Ukip's new cross logo, sows division and causes anxiety among communities.
The statement expressed concern that such actions have led to racist abuse and violence, making some feel unsafe in their own communities.
While affirming the flag's Christian heritage, the bishops stressed that it cannot be owned by any single group or cause, urging respectful dialogue on migration issues.
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