Calgary Council Rejects Ban on Foreign Flags at City Hall

City Hall Flags: Council Upholds Current Policy

Calgary City Council has narrowly rejected a contentious motion to ban foreign national flags from flying at City Hall. The decision, made on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, ensures the city's existing flag policy will remain in effect, allowing international flags to be raised under specific conditions.

Debate Over Division vs. Diversity

The urgent notice of motion, brought forward by Ward 13 Councillor Dan McLean and supported by Mayor Jeromy Farkas, was defeated by a tight 8-7 vote. Proponents of the ban argued that recent flag-raising events, intended as unifying gestures, have become a source of division and been associated with controversial messaging. This sentiment was particularly amplified following the historic raising of the Palestinian flag on November 15, 2025. Supporters of the ban emphasized the need for City Hall to reflect neutrality and avoid taking sides in international disputes.

Under Calgary's current flag policy, citizens can request the raising of national flags from countries recognized by the Government of Canada on their designated national days. While the motion failed, Councillor McLean has stated his intention to reintroduce the issue through the executive committee, indicating that the debate over civic identity and public space representation is far from settled.