Despite Calls to 'Stick to Business,' Palestinian Flag to Fly at Calgary City Hall
City Hall's Role Questioned Amidst Flag Debate
A recent surge of community sentiment challenges Calgary City Hall's involvement in international affairs, with some residents urging leaders to "stick to running the business of the city" rather than engaging in what they deem "bullshit" or "nonsense" symbolic gestures. This sentiment has sharpened specifically around the planned raising of the Palestinian flag, set for November 15, 2025.
Palestinian Flag Raising Confirmed Under Existing Policy
Despite calls for cancellation, the raising of the Palestinian flag at City Hall has been approved and will proceed. This marks a historic first for Calgary and Alberta. The event is permitted under the city's longstanding flag policy, which allows national flags of countries officially recognized by the Government of Canada to be flown on their national days. Canada, alongside the UK and Australia, formally recognized Palestine on September 21, 2025, enabling this commemoration.
While Mayor Jeromy Farkas has announced plans to propose an amendment to the flag policy – seeking to cease all national flag raisings at City Hall due to concerns over divisiveness – he confirmed this approved Palestinian flag-raising will still go ahead. The broader debate highlights the tension between City Hall's focus on local services and its role in recognizing Calgary's diverse communities.
