Birmingham City Council is facing criticism from residents and campaigners over its handling of a group responsible for placing flags across the city. Since last summer, Raise the Colours has been erecting Union Jack and St George's Cross flags on public infrastructure, including lamp-posts and roundabouts. While the group claims to promote unity and patriotism, opponents accuse it of fuelling racism and anti-immigration sentiment – allegations denied by the group.
Residents affiliated with Brummies United Against Racism have presented evidence, comprising statements, videos, and images, detailing incidents involving Raise the Colours during meetings with the council and West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster. Campaigners are now urging the council to seek an injunction against the group, expressing frustration at what they see as a slow response from local authorities.
Green Party councillor Duncan Ali acknowledged the council's complex position but reaffirmed his party's commitment to taking action. He highlighted evidence of "aggressive, intimidating, violent behaviour" by Raise the Colours, which is being used to support the request for an injunction. The Green Party forms part of a minority administration in Birmingham with the Liberal Democrats and the Better Birmingham Independent Group.
The situation mirrors that in Oxfordshire, where a High Court injunction was secured by Oxfordshire County Council to prevent unauthorised flag-hanging on public highways. This injunction specifically named Raise the Colours co-founder Ryan Bridge, who was arrested in Oxford in April on suspicion of religiously and racially aggravated harassment and separately charged with common assault by Sussex Police following an incident in Brighton in June.
In Birmingham, residents have alerted authorities to a hit-and-run incident in May, which occurred after a group had gathered to remove flags. West Midlands Police confirmed that two men have been arrested in connection with this incident and released on bail. Residents describe a pattern of confrontation with Raise the Colours, where initial discussions about patriotism quickly escalate into anti-immigration rhetoric, particularly references to "stopping the boats."
Duncan Ali stated, "While we understand the desire for community pride and identity, our primary concern must be public safety. We will continue to work with residents, local authorities, and law enforcement to address this complex situation and ensure that everyone's rights are respected." The outcome of the campaigners' request for an injunction remains uncertain.