British Fire service bans Black Country flag due to 'potential link to slavery'

Chains can be a sign of unity.  See the Eton boating song

The black country was central to the industrial revolution and at that time pollution filled the sky and the region was described as 'Black by Day' and 'Red by Night' by Elihu Burritt. Hence the colours in the flag

Their foundries also forged the anchors and chains for great ships like the Titanic, hence the chains on the flag




A fire service has been criticised for banning a Black Country flag designed by 12-year-old schoolgirl because it features a chain with a "potential link to slavery".

The red, black and white emblem was designed by Gracie Sheppard in 2013 to commemorate the industrial heritage of the West Midlands area.

Selected by public vote, it is proudly displayed on homes and buildings across the region on July 14, known as Black Country Day.

However, West Midlands Fire Service has now refused to display the flag at its stations, claiming the chains pictured on it may have historically been associated with the slave trade.

The service pledged its support to the Black Lives Matter movement and said it wants its staff to instead celebrate Black Country Day "in alternative ways" until they have established what the chains represent....

SOURCE