Project Britain.com: Celebrating the UK's National Days

Saturday, March 18, 2006

Celebrating the UK’s National Days

St David’s Day 1 March
London does not seem to celebrate St David’s day.

This year, on St David’s Day, the Queen officially opened the new Welsh National Assembly Building in Cardiff. She was accompanied by the Duke of Edinburgh, the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall.

St Patrick’s Day 17 March
London celebrates St Patrick’s Day with the annual huge parade and festival in central London.

The parade includes approx 4,000 participants made up of marching bands from Britain, Ireland and Europe, colourful costumes, community groups, Irish dancing schools, pageantry and floats with Irish music, costumes and characters. Thousands line the streets to watch and cheer on this colourful spectacle.

You can find out more by visiting the London St Patrick’s Day website at http://www.londonstpatricksday.org.uk/.

St George’s Day 23 April
London celebrates St George’s Day with the annual Festival of St George at Covent Garden.
The Festival includes performances by the English Folk Song and Dance Society, Moulton Morris and the Jive Aces. Plus Punch and Judy and Mummers Plays. It is also a good opportunity to see Pearly Kings and Queens.

I went to the festival last year. It is a great day out for people who want to celebrate and experience ‘Englishness’. It is a shame that St George’s Day is not celebrated in the same way as St Patrick’s Day in London.

St George’s Day Parade at the Cenotaph
Short service, wreath laying and march past.

Do you think London should have a major St. George’s Day celebration? After all it is the capital city of England as well as the UK. Scroll down the page to leave a comment.

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271 comments:

«Oldest ‹Older 1 – 200 of 271 Newer› Newest»

Janice said…: As a true, genuine English person it is disgraceful that

we do not celebrate St George’s Day on the 23rd April.

We see everyone else celebrating their day, wherever they come from, but it is not Politically Correct for us to do the same. WHY do we just give in? Surely we have the right to fly flags and where Badges – if we can get them!

GOOD LUCK to all who do something positive on the

23rd!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!; March 19, 2006
Lorien said…: Why do is it considered Politically Incorrect to celebrate St. George Day?

Lorien; March 19, 2006
Eve said…: When I lived in England – pre 1960, I doubt if anyone in my area had even heard of St. George`s day. Certainly we never celebrated it in school. In fact I have heard more about it since I came to live in Wales. Perhaps because the English people here tend to honour St. George`s day to compete with the St. David`s day celebrations, which are carried out with great enthusiasm, particularly in the schools.; March 19, 2006
Griffin said…: Celebrate St George’s Day, what ever next !!!!, Why is it that we are not allowed to call ourselves English? British yes, Scottish yes, Welsh yes, Jamaican yes, any name you like, except English.

Remember the 2001 Population Census? The forms were returned if they had English entered as our nationality, I remember reading of people even being fined for refusing to change English to British, yet we read of many thousands of forms not even being returned, I wonder how much they were fined?; March 19, 2006
Howard said…: St.George’s day should be declared a national holiday.

All English people should have the right to English citizenship and an English passport.
Howard; March 19, 2006
Edith said…: I think one reason why some English people don’t really celebrate St. George’s Day is that to do so identifies you with the sort of sour, curmudgeonly and even racist attitudes that are being hinted at in the previous post.

Some English people do feel ‘under siege’ by immigrants, it seems, and think they ‘can’t’ celebrate their culture because people in England who are from other cultures will be offended. So that often gives the celebrations a rather defensive feel. But I’m not sure that this ‘offendedness’ really exists – I think most non-English people here feel fine about such celebrations as long as they don’t involve some kind of spiteful paranoia against immigrants!

I agree there is a problem that ‘English’ is sometimes not seen as a valid cultural identity, even in England (such as the issue with the Census mentioned above). And there is also some disagreement about what a ‘true, genuine English person’ is. (Do you have to be white? And what if one, or both, of your parents weren’t English? What if your grandparents weren’t? What exactly are the criteria, and sez who?) I also think there’s an unfortunate assumption (e.g. from some City Councils) that the English are secure in their culture because we’re here in England, so we don’t need a special day to highlight it. I think this is a shame and makes some English people feel sulky and left-out when they see all kinds of cultures from abroad being publicly celebrated and acknowledged. But on the other hand, the way that some English people want to celebrate their Englishness has always seemed to me so angry and so small-minded, that I’ve never really wanted to associate myself with it much.

Personally, I wish we could celebrate our culture and nationality without having to get all defensive. It would be good if we could just say, ‘This is what I am, and it’s an interesting culture and I’m proud to belong to it,’ rather than, ‘…and it’s better than your culture!’ And also if we could celebrate not so much England’s colonial past, but also some of our other history (working-class history, women’s history, early anti-racist campaigners, etc) and some of our present-day culture (music, film, fashion, sport, literature, journalism, TV…) on St George’s day.

In fact, it seems to me that a lot of us are not too clear what our culture actually is; and when asked to talk about it, we start going on vaguely about afternoon tea, the Queen, and roast beef and Yorkshire pud (none of which are a very big part of MY life and culture as an English person today!) I think we need to be more prepared to celebrate the diversity of different types of English people, different lifestyles and attitudes that exist (and have always existed) amongst the English, rather than just waving flags and stereotyping ourselves. Just a thought.; March 19, 2006
Anonymous said…: I celebrate St.Georges Day every 23rd April with my family. I have been brought up to be proud to be English and I think more should be done to encourage young children to be proud of their heritage. It is unacceptable that we are made to feel ashamed of our History.; March 19, 2006
Harry said…: I strongly believe that St George should have the same status as St Patrick’s Day and American Independence Day. If you were to tell the Americans that they couldn’t have Independence Day or the French they couldn’t celebrate Bastille Day, you’d have a fight on your hands. It’s time we stood up and fought for St George.; March 19, 2006
Steve said…: It is, perhaps, hardly surprising when St Patrick’s Day is associated with having a good time and poor old St George has been associated with extreme right wing politics and English football hooligans.; March 19, 2006
Axon said…: Patriotic greetings and good wishes to all

My family and I are so looking forward to St Georges Day, and to celebrating with all others who come together in national pride. May the sun smile on us in glorious England!

My message to us all is this:

Never mind those who call us names and are ashamed of being English. Let’s not think about offending those who will not or cannot integrate with us. It’s their loss, …. and anyhow we have better things to occupy us on this most wonderful day in the calendar of our fine nation.

Blessed are we English. Glory to the land we love!; March 19, 2006
Zofia said…: It is a shame that patriotism is confused with nationalism.; March 19, 2006
Sue said…: To me, each nation is a family. Aren’t you proud of your own family ? And don’t you stand up for them and defend them,welcome new members(and cold-shoulder those that refuse to fit in)? Of course you do.

I have my flag flying and I’ve played “Jerusalem” on St George’s Day.

The English are a stoical race and take just so much, but there is a point where they will snap and fight back. I think we’ve reached this point and the upsurge in nationalism surely shows that: St. George is a symbol, a rallying cry to defend your own and I feel that anyone who denigrates this doesn’t deserve to be living in my beautiful country.; March 19, 2006
Axon said…: To Sue,

We here agree wholeheartedly with your sentiments, and send our fond greetings to you and yours on this day.

If only many more could see how wholesome and uplifting it is to be proud of this land. The English are so tolerant, and because of that we have been disabused by our leaders and scorned by those who would change our unique way of life.

We say no more of this PC nonsense! We are proud to be what we are, and were not ashamed to say so!

Happy St. Georges Day to all ….; March 19, 2006
Lady Macbeth said…: As a Scot living in Scotland,I am shocked to hear that some English people are scared to fly the flag incase it offends ethnic minorities. It is time for the English to reclaim their flag from the hooligans who disrespect it.

Embrace your culture. Never cringe from it. It is wonderful. Look at all the incredible things the English are known for. Stonehenge, royalty, cricket, football, the language, Shakespeare, Morris Dancers, Pearly Kings and Queens, cucumber sandwiches and the beautiful countryside are a few examples. You folks have fun, NOW!; March 19, 2006
Haley said…: People from Wales are Welsh, people from Scotland are Scottish/Scotsmen, people from Ireland are Irish….I am from England and I am English! Why should I have to hide behind the “British” nationality?? This is politics gone mad…I read on the homepage about a school not allowing England football shirts in P.E…but they allowed other country’s national shirts…surely, this is being racist against our own race?! I think that it is disgusting that English people cannot be proud of who they are just in case they upset people who are not English…if other countries can celebrate their saint’s day, why can’t we? I am currently training to become a teacher, and when qualified, I will teach my class about all cultures, and to respect people who come from different backgrounds and cultures…I think it is about time WE and people from other cultures start to respect OUR culture. Surely it cannot be politically incorrect to be proud of your country and everything good about it?; March 19, 2006
St George said…: We all have this natural tendency to do the opposite of what someone tells us to do, if we don’t like what we are being told.

The reason we are feeling so patriotic is because we are being oppressed by the ‘Political Correctness Brigade’ and ‘lefty liberals’. They don’t like the idea of us celebrating ‘Englishness’ as they’re concerned it may offend the ethnic minorities residing in the UK. Do I care about St. George’s day? Being honest, I couldn’t give monkeys about it. But when I come across this blatant unjust oppression, it makes my blood boil. I live in a democracy for which I’m most indebted to my forefathers and many others who died so that we have the freedom we have today. Reiterating what someone said in a previous thread:

“…the big thing about a democracy is, one doesn’t have to ‘deserve’ it. In a democratic country, one simply *has* it, just by being human and being here.”

Fair enough, if non-English folk want to burn the flag – let them! That’s the beauty of a democracy; they’re allowed to express themselves although we may feel aggrieved by these actions. So I pose this question: Why can’t we express ourselves and celebrate St. George’s day if we choose too? After all it is a democracy….isn’t it? Evidence of such oppression is ubiquitous. Every year my local pub has applied to the local council for an extended license for the St.George’s day celebrations, and every year they are turned down. However, every year they are granted an extended license for St.Patrick’s day. Likewise, the local council demanded that all taxi drivers remove the St. George flag from their taxis or face punishment.

Are we really offending ‘these people’ by celebrating our national day? Looking at it from another perspective, they (the government) are offending the ethnic minorities by portraying them as stupid, ignorant and uncultured. If I was an ethnic minority in this country (and I might be for all you know), I’d be more offended by these actions than the prospect of celebrating ‘Englishness’ in the form of St. Georges day.

I can to a certain point, understand where they (the oppressors) are coming from. Because we’ve never celebrated St. George’s day before, and now we’ve ten-fold more immigrants and refugees, they think it’s an act of rebellion that will further polarize our society. Well they will have to think again because this oppression WILL lead to polarization and discontent causing much damage; possibly promoting unsavoury elements such as the BNP. I think the ethnic minority groups have a responsibility as citizens of this country, to stand up and re-educate the government; telling them where they are going wrong before unnecessary damage is done.

I live in north London which is inhabited predominantly by Greek/Cypriots. One of my fondest memories of patriotism is when England beat Spain during Euro 96. After the match, the streets in north London were littered with young lads born from Greek/Cypriot parents, draped and waving England flags. Before when I talked to these lads, they seemed so proud of their Greek/Cypriot heritage and never mentioned England in the same breath. Yet there they were, flag waving and singing; feeling proud to be part of this country and may I add, proud to be English….!

It would be great to see ethnic minorities taking part in our celebrations, enjoying the day as much as us. I’ve celebrated St.Patrick’s day even though I’m not Irish, and Diwali with some of my many Indian friends. Having done this has only increased my cultural awareness and educated me for the better. Lets stop this nonsense before a monster is created that will damage all the good work that has been done so far!; March 19, 2006
Debbie said…: I just think it is such a shame that because we tolerate this political correctness we have to water down our nationality.
When I go abroad, and indeed if I moved abroad, I expect and delight in embracing other people’s cultures and am certainly not offended at their national celebrations. I’m sure the vast majority of foreign people living in our country feel the same way about our culture and traditions.
Let’s all lighten up and enjoy the wonderful diversity, history and culture God has blessed our beautiful country with!; March 21, 2006
Moody45 said…: In our tiny village of Rookhope, high in the pennines, I decided that St George’s Day needed to be resurrected. I started with bunting outside my house, now the whole village has joined in.
If you have a photo facility, i’ll gladly post some pics.
Ed Mason
Imagine
Rookhope; March 23, 2006
Anonymous said…: Like any Englishman I feel that St George’s day is overlooked – we should be proud to celebrate it. We should not be ashamed of being English – putting the St. George Cross out does not make us racist or thug in any way.

There are too many “do gooders” who think they know best – well that is crap – these people are out of touch with reality – the reality is that we the English have been made to feel inferior because we are continually told “to say that” or “or to do this” may offend! It is time things changed -we need our identity back.

n.b what is wrong with my son singing bar bar black sheep – last i knew when i went to school is that sheep could not communicate in human speak – so how can you offend them!; March 24, 2006
Joanne said…: I am proud to be English and think it should be celebrated. St George’s Day used to be as important as Christmas – let’s bring back that tradition. It is time that the majority reclaimed this festival, along with our flag.; March 26, 2006
Anonymous said…: I’m a proud Englishman who always refers to himself as English and not British. I fear for my country in that all the left wing fools who run this country are hell-bent on erasing anything associated with England & English. Why is it that everyone wants to be Irish and celebrate St Paddy’s day? Do u remember all those happy times when people flew the flag on their cars, that is until the poilce started pulling people over and asking for them to be removed, could u imagine if you said that to a scot or an American.; March 26, 2006
Justine said…: Hi as a british born citisen i think it is appalig that there are very little cellebrations of ST George. I fly ST Georges flag with pride and have tought my children to do the same. I will not allow anyone to dictate who’s flag can be flown you should fly your countries flag where ever you come from with PRIDE.; March 27, 2006
CHRIS JARVIS said…: We do celebrate St George’s Day in our village and Ithink it is time we got it together again like we used to, if other people don’t like it tough! it’s our Patron Saint and we should be proud not worried that it may upset others. No body seems very bothered about upsetting us!so come let us be proud of being ENGLISH.Come and join us on the 23rd we will fly and flags and let anyone try and stop us!!!!; March 27, 2006
Alec Hutton said…: God bless England and I wish that we English made more of our pride in being English.
unlike the hierarchy who are so afraid of offending some unknown sensitive so-called Brit, I hope to take part by flying a St George’s Cross as a flag. I hope that many others will do the same.
Alec.; March 27, 2006
Aurora said…: I am an Italian teacher: first of all congratulations and many thanks for your useful website.
I think every people should not consider an offense to show their own identity because every identity must be respected: an old Italian saying reminds us that “world is beautiful because is various” (il mondo è bello perchè è vario), not because everybody is similar.
If we lose our tradition and identity we become “hollow men”, as T.S.Eliot wrote, incapable of enjoying of anything.; March 27, 2006
mick dunham said…: why is Nationalism confused with racism? I’m an Englishman living in Holland and love Queens Day (Dutch national day). I go into the streets and have fun with the Dutch on April the 30th so why dont the English celebrate the 23rd!
This year there will e a party at my place so if you fancy a beer in Amsterdam……..; March 30, 2006
Tikouai said…: Of course you should,don’t listen to the politicians,they are just bluffing,you should never ignore your national day it’s yours.I’m not British but i respect any national days.Even though i’m here my community get permission from the authorities to celebrate our DAY so why do they ignore theirs?It’s sad,you’ve to fight for it.
DON’T PUT THAT MAN IN THE ARCHIVES!!!; March 31, 2006
Bruce Kerby said…: “There is a forgotten, nay almost forbidden word,
which means more to me than any other.
That word is ENGLAND.” – Sir Winston Churchill
Stand tall and be proud of who you are and where you come from; April 02, 2006
Kenny said…: It seems that as true English people we are being washed away with the intergration of other cultures, political correctness will be the down fall of our heritage and traditions. I will fly my george cross and be damned if anyone anywhere trys to stop me. And if people dont like it in England they should go live somwhere else.; April 03, 2006
Stuart said…: Come on! we are English British, British English, what ever! lets celebrate it, reclaim are heritage from those that have stolen it and used our flag as an emblem of racial hatred, as a banner to hide behind, take it back and make it stand for something positive and great.

I’m Proud to be British but even more proud to be English. Edith’s point earlier was a good one, who define’s it? What are the criteria? I don’t want colour or creed to be a criteria to be English. Our children should be tout of the great things that our country and our nation have done in the world and the importance of resects and tolerance for other cultures. We should remember the things that we cocked up and got wrong so that we can learn and move on and not make those mistakes again. I want English to be a statement of pride…Happy St Georges day on the 23rd to every one…; April 04, 2006
Anonymous said…: I am a Scout Leader and will be celebrating St Georges day along with other Scouters by parading and attending a church service.; April 06, 2006
Anonymous said…: Should we celebrate England’s national day? Of course we should! What possible legitimate reason could there be for NOT celebrating it? There isn’t one!
Saying rubbish like “it will offend other people” is just a made-up excuse used by new labour p.c. politicians.
I have never met anyone who is offended by the English flag. Infact, non-English people I know make a point of telling me that they think what new labour politicians say about non-English people being offended by the English flag is absolute rubbish!

Seriously, if people who aren’t English don’t think England should celebrate it’s own national day then they should not be living in England! Simple as that. Why would they go against the country that has showed them hospitality?

The real reason some people do not want England to have a recognised national day is because they’re bigots. Take new labour. They cant say they agree with England having a national day because it goes directly against a)what their EUROPEAN UNION masters want, (yes, they are e.u. lackeys)
b)they are going to look Like the hypocrites they are (i.e. actively encouraging scottish and welsh nationalism)
and c)it goes against their anti-English agenda!
Like I said, there is no legitmate reason for not celebrating England’s national day.
I have my English (cross of st george) flag on my car and in my house. I also fly the even older white dragon English flag.
Both are symbols of Englishness and im extremely proud to fly both.; April 07, 2006
Anonymous said…: I am somewhat tired of the Irish and their constant harping about St. Patrick’s Day. In Canada our good French Canadian citizens celebrate St. John’s the Baptist Day. Why not celebrate St.George?

John (A proud Canadian of English descent); April 07, 2006
Peter Haslam said…: Why should we let the hooligans steal St George from us? Down with PC!! Let’s regain our own Saint and celebrate with joy and fun. Others would be most welcome to join in with us if they wish.
Pete Haslam; April 08, 2006
kevin said…: I feel that it is discusting that we do not celebrate our proudest day of the year. I strongly believe that people are too frightened to be labled a racist just because you are patriotic. I think that more people should feel proud of England and its history. I know that I am and no amount of negative comments will make me believe other wise. kevin, 25.; April 08, 2006
Anonymous said…: St.George’s day does appear to have been pushed to the wayside. As a teaching assistant i have experienced the denial of education and celebration in schools. As a nation i feel we have battled many demons and lost our faith along the way. There are not too many people of my generation and forward that are avid patriots and the emblem of the English nation has only been exposed in sport or for representing hooliganism. In light of recent devestations i feel it’s about time the English person became a little more patriotic to their country, what happened to national service! the youth of today are out of control along with the judicial system. Even if we’re not going to celebrate St.George’s day for him LET US CELEBRATE ST.GEORGE’S DAY FOR THE ENGLISH!!!!!
FROM MAXINE IN RUISLIP.; April 09, 2006
David Whelbourn said…: Absolutely, England needs to regain its roots after being continually portrayed using the Union flag. From other countries being English is only recognised as British. Indeed part of the problems with Scotland, Wales and Ireland is the fact that they don’t believe in the Union and believe the union flag to be about English dominance. Perhaps a move to more display of Englishness would help with our relations with the other members of the UK.

For me being English is about supporting the under-dog, playing fair and winning is a bonus, taking part is the key, giving without expecting to receive and defending freedoms. Being proud of what England has given to the world. It doesnt matter what colour your are, whether your mother or father isnt English. If you are born in England then you have the happy opportunity to claim the right to be called and Englishman or woman.; April 10, 2006
Anonymous said…: political correctness is a load of cobblers we should be proud of our heritage and be able to enjoy it without any interruption or comment
I suspect most of the miserable busybodies are socialists
John Zimnoch
A Tyke
Toronto Canada; April 10, 2006
JOSEPH POULTER said…: Let’s hear it for ENGLAND and St GEORGE on the 23rd APRIL,and if you don’t like it ,PLEASE LEAVE. JOSEPH POULTER.; April 11, 2006
Anonymous said…: I am proud to be English and I think we should celebrate this special day with a holiday and street parties.I will be enjoying the day feeling very proud about having a Saint in our country.
I am sure that people who have chosen to live in our country will celebrate along with us as they have chosen to live like English people.; April 12, 2006
Anonymous said…: Yes. We need to celebrate on a specifically chosen special date each year – 23rd April (not 22nd or 24th to suit the powers that be).
We come together to celebrate what St George represents for the English and any other nation – a spirit of justice, tolerance and free speech. Wave the flags and have a party and invite all to share in the celebration! St George would have loved it! And ask our PC friends along to relax and enjoy life for a bit.; April 13, 2006
Bob A. said…: As an ex-pat living in Canada, which celebrates Canada Day on July 1st., I proudly fly the flag of St. George at my home for the full week of St. Georges Day. At first my neighbours asked abuot the flag, but now they are pleased to see it streaming in the breeze.
It is not only a sad day, but a national disgrace that the so called “Non English population” must be appeased by disallowing our native symbol. WAKE UP England!! Buy a St. Georges flag and FLY it Proudly.; April 14, 2006
Jerrod said…: Damned Political Correctness.

I have asked numerous peeps in my area when St. Georges day is.. and it is worrying how many people stare blankly at you for a few moments

And then shrug their shoulders going “I dunno”

I should, nay shall, not be pushed down by a PC government who would rather wish we forget our heritage. I will hang the Cross outside my house in honour of the 2nd Greatest day of the Year (birthdays are the 1st).

FOR ENGLAND!; April 14, 2006
Hayley said…: Well i am going to be Flying my Flag, This is an English Tradition that is dying, yes i agree we should accept other Nationalities openly and embrace them – This i am proud of our country For.- BUT DO NOT FORGET TO CELEBRATE ST GEORGE’S DAY – WE ARE ENGLISH AND I FOR ONE AM VERY VERY PROUD OF IT.; April 16, 2006
Ray said…: As an Eglishman living in Ireland, I was horrified to see huge signs in a large number of pubs (during a recent visit to my family in Kent) avertising St Patrick’s weekend celebrations. I come over every year for St George’s & have difficulty finding a place to celebrate & usually end up in London as none of the local pubs are allowed a late licence.

Come on Tony Blair, give us this day to celebrate not being British, but ENGLISH!!

I’m proud to be English & like the vast majority of English people am not racist, but if someone’s offended by me celebrating my national day, please stay at home & keep your curtains closed as I will be wearing my St George’s cross tie & if i can find one, draped in an English flag!; April 16, 2006
Andrew for St George said…: I love my country and have always been proud of it,no-one will ever deprive me of that.I feel that alot of our social problems stem from a lack of national pride and hence loss of respect. We are walked over by a vociferous, politically correct minority who have too much influence over the loyal majority, we must therefore drop the veils of complacancy and once again take the reins of this countries destiny.; April 16, 2006
Anonymous said…: I am proud to be English, but unfortunately this makes me either an eccentric or a racist. I am neither.

We have always welcomed others into our country & they are free to celebrate their ‘special’ days without interference.

If we celebrate St Georges Day we are told it could cause offence. “TO WHO”?

I have friends of all nationalities & races. None of whom could could care less whether we celebrate St Georges Day or not.

It’s time these short sighted people woke up to reality & realised that they are the ones causing the problems; April 17, 2006
a patriotic Drummer said…: I would first like o point out that there is no such thing as an English ‘citizen’ as we are subjects of Her Majesty the Queen, I don’t know where the idea that we are citizens came from, but I feel that it should be stopped.

I have paraded on St George’s Day for the past seven years on the weekend closest to the 23 with either my own Corps of Drums, or with the London Fusiliers, at the Cenotaph. On my way to Balham last year, I saw one person, other than me, wearing a rose that day and I was shocked to see people just walking past a rose seller at the tube stop, who had a big sign with ‘buy your St. George’s Day roses’.

I am due to parade at the Cenotaph again this year and then going to a St. Georges Day dinner in the evening, I just feel sorry for my Dad that he doesn’t get to see the kind of celebrations that he should on his birthday. I’ve asked him if he has ever had notable jubilations on the day he was born (23/04 if you missed it before) and he quite bluntly said “never”.; April 17, 2006
Geordieboy said…: I was born on St Georges Day 23/4/46 + will be 60yrs old in a
few days, I am a geordie born+bred
Newcastle Tyneside + Very Proud,
England has two flags which are
St Georges with a Red Cross with a
White Background + the Union Jack,
with 4 Saints on it, St George,
St David, St Andrew + St Patrick,
England is where I was born so why
cant we celibrate St Georges day as much as we do the other Saints.; April 18, 2006
Anonymous said…: Come sunday I will be flying the flag, having a BBQ and enjoying the day with family and friends.

I would not be offended if the flag of the country I was living or staying in was waving high, I would just think they were proud of their heritage.

I hope to see lots more people celebrating St Georges day this sunday; April 19, 2006
Anonymous said…: ACROSS THE POND WE WILL BE CELEBRATING
ST. GEORGES DAY ON APRIL 22ND. FROM 2PM-6PM WITH THE BRITISH CAR CLUB, COLUM CILLE PIPE BAND, BEER TASTING AND SCOTCH MASTER DEMO. BRITISH BEER COMPANY PLYMOUTH MA.; April 19, 2006
Anonymous said…: just wanted 2 say, in reply to janice’s post, i walked past a clinton’s today and say english flags being hung, balloons being pumped up and everything being sold. i reckon if i go past 2morrow someone will have complained ad got them taken down, like ambulance services have 2 now. it aint just a question of celebration on one day, its about national identity. can everyone also please go to http://www.bombardier.co.uk/sign.php and sign the form so that we can try and get the government to change its view.; April 19, 2006
Anonymous said…: hi i run a pre school in hertfordshire. as part of our curriculum we have to show diversity even at this young age and try to teach our children that they should respect and consider each persons beliefs and religions. over the last year we celebrated diwali, xmas, easter,and the chinese new year. However my staff feel constantly under pressure to cover all regligions apart from our own christianity! why is this? this year we have decided to cover st georges day by making flags and dragons and will start to do this every year from now on.; April 19, 2006
Helen said…: When are the people of this country going to re-discover their backbone. It is not a multicultural country – there is only one culture – ENGLISH – but there are many races SO i will say it is true that we are a multi racial country. If you come to live here you follow our rules. There is nothing wrong with immigrants continuing to celebrate their customs but not at the expense of ours. Why do we have to take a back seat for fear of offending the minority. If the truth be known, no immigrant/foreigner would be offended it’s all the [English] PC do gooders that make all the fuss on their behalf. I was outraged recently when my daughters school celebrated Diwali to the extent of the teachers wearing traditional indian costume and my daughter coming out of school with a “bindi”. I have no problem with children learning of other religion/customs but surely our children should be learining about their own heritage and customs first. Apart from Christmas our other festivals such as Easter and St Georges day pass with little or no ceremony. When I asked my daughter what she knew of St George she said she knew nothing and they had not discussed it at school.; April 20, 2006
Anonymous said…: hi, i,m an english man through and through.
i was told once to take my t shirt off which had a st george flag on, as it could cause offence!!
so i have a large st george tattoo now on my back, with the 3 lions on my arm, will they ask me to try and get rid of that!!! i would love a bank holiday on the 23rd april, either way, i will be celebrating it as i always do, thanks, mark.; April 21, 2006
Anonymous said…: We are a multi cultural society and should embrace all the cultures that live, work and enjoy this country. We should celebrate with pride every day that is important to all of us and not exclude one part. If someone is offended by our flag then that reaction is racist, not the fact that the flag is on display. Everyone should accept everyones culture. Acceptance for all of us, not just some of us.; April 21, 2006
Anonymous said…: before the 1950s everybody was very patriotic, flags would fly, people would sing patriotic songs, we would celebrate days like this with PRIDE, but, slowly, it has died off because of amount of foriegners swamping our country, we need to keep England for the English.
I for one, am very patriotic towards my nation (both England and Britain) and fly both flags in my garden everyday, it shows my; April 21, 2006
Anonymous said…: I think that we should most definately celebrate St.Georges day. It should be a day for everyone to unite and celibrate the country that they live in. It should promote unity between all cultures. i think that anyone who says it is politically incorrect to celebrate it is confused. I for one will most definately be celebrating. I am a nurse so serve the public everyday. I would encourage people to celebrate however they want. After the bombing london united against terrorists so I think that this day should be used to allow people to stand up and celebrate where they live and what they believe in!!!!!; April 21, 2006
Carole said…: We shall be celebrating St George’s Day as usual with roast beef and yorkshire pudding with other ENGLISH friends!!!
St George’s flag will be flying outside the house and it’s just tough if anybody thinks that is not PC !!!!!!; April 21, 2006
Chris said…: I’m now living in Turkey, a country which knows how to celebrate its National Day (October 29th.) I will be flying the flag of St. George tomorrow and NO-ONE will tell me to take it down. They are quite happy to see it flying here.

Chris.; April 21, 2006
Anonymous said…: David from Windlesham Surrey

Every year we celebrate in style English food English wines from Denbigh Vineyard in Dorking the house is decorated red and white and along with 30+ guests we raise a toast to St George quoting

I see you stand like Greyhounds in the slips straining upon the start. The games afoot: Follow yout spirit: and, upon this charge ( a good time to raise the glasses) “cry God for Harry! England and Saint George!”

Shakespeare, Henry V (1599) act3, sc1.31; April 21, 2006
John said…: I think everyone should know that St George was born in Turkey in a town called Cappadocia in about the year 280 AD. And we never had a british ruler for 1000 years!!!
So please tell me whats so British about St George??! also not to mention our Royal family are German.; April 21, 2006
Anonymous said…: We are having our annual St Georges Day BBQ- The Flags will be flying, family guests are asked to wear an England shirt or Football shirt of their choice. A fun day is always had by all.
England is our country and we should be proud to celebrate our Patron Saint; April 21, 2006
Anonymous said…: I find it offensive that we English are not allowed to celebrate St Georges day or even be overtly proud we are English why is this? Why aren’t Police stations allowed to fly the St Georges Cross instead of the Union Jack, we are Enlish not British!! There appears to be an outcry when we English who live in England wish to be idetified by our heritage. Why can’t any goverment recognise this fact and be positive in its acceptance.; April 21, 2006
Anonymous said…: For the first time in my life (all 33 years), I am going to celebrate St George’s day this year with my family.

It was suggested by a parent at my daughter’s nursery that it should be celebrated in the same way as St Patrick’s day. The school welcomed this and all children were invited to come into school in red & white, england shirts, the lot……it felt great!!

I think more people are realising that our history is important and that it should be celebrated.

Here’s to St George!!; April 21, 2006
Anonymous said…: I am proud to be English and will be flying my St George’s flags from my house on Sunday. Every other ethnic community in England is allowed and encouraged to embrace it’s culture and heritage – so why not us? Am I really proud to be English? Yes! Am I a racist? No! So why do I feel some sort of guilt by flying my national flag on St George’s Day? Chris – Trowbridge.; April 22, 2006
George said…: If the story about the mans wifes’ school is true then she should have the school put it in writing then she could take them to court for discrimination – the laws are there.
I suspect however that the story is untrue. I notice the the name of the author and school are missing, could this be due to libel reasons?
I am english and will be celebrating st.george’s day on sunday without the need to turn my pro-englishness into anti-everyone else.
try and be nice people.
gx; April 22, 2006
julia smith said…: We should definately celebrate . We are having roast beef ,strawberries and cream and a fun quiz on all things English.
we have to wear red and white and if we can find flags so much the better.

A few years ago I sent my 6 year old daughter to school wearing a rose on St Georges day. Her teacher asked her why she had a rose. my daighter explained and was told that St George’s day was not for celbrating as it was for undesirable political people (or words to that effect!!); April 22, 2006
Anonymous said…: As an English man living in Wales,
I always celebrate St George`s Day
I find it quite baffling that it is not celebrated fully in England, PC gone mad.; April 22, 2006
William said…: England, English let us all be proud of being English as well as British and stop this multi cultural bias.William; April 22, 2006
Anonymous said…: I was born an Irishman and was brought up in Scotland till I was 19, I moved south to England in 1969 and I think you should all celibrate this day, I did when I married my second with on it and its your 13th aniversarry tomorrow.
Be ENGLISH and stand up for your rights, ever one else does, even in this country but never the ENGLISH that were born here.; April 22, 2006
Anonymous said…: I am so proud to be English and it’s great to see other people saying the same. On the 23rd i will have flags,buntting etc.outside my house to celebrate our National Day. I hope everyone has a GREAT DAY.; April 22, 2006
Sophie said…: I don’t think that celebrating this day is politically incorrect. People have the right to be happy for their country, don’t they? I think the problem is when you try to force people of other nationality to be happy too. That’s a very unconfortable situation and I think that’s the real problem.; April 22, 2006
Anonymous said…: My family look forward to St.Georges Day every year. We brought our children up to know it is a day for celerbration and having fun. In the morning they wake up to St.Georges Day presents and especially if it is a weekend we do something like going to the park of the zoo with our friends and their children.
Nothing makes me prouder to be english then seeing a group of children running around with england flags, enjoying this one day of the year and anybody who thinks that is politically incorect has no heart.; April 22, 2006
Anonymous said…: I am english and proud to be english i want to celebrate St Georges Day but finding it hard as living in a multi racial society its said to be offensive and racist but i was born and raised english so why can’t we celebrate.

As some of you may or may not know we won’t be able to celebrate christmas with christmas lights they will be winter lights what is this all about i want to be english i’m fed up of changing our way of life to fit in with other cultures why can’t they change to fit in with us why do we have to give up everything we believe in?????; April 22, 2006
john said…: Hello my name is John from March in Cambridgeshire. We will be celebrating ST Georges Day in our house. We fly the flag all year round in our garden. What does it matter if he was not Lnglish as people say, we should still be allowed to enjoy our Englishness as others celebrate their days nationalities. lets enjoy the day. In my street we have Polish, Romanian & Slovakians and not one of those mind just as we don’t mind them celebrating their days. so GOOD LUCK on the day; April 22, 2006
Andrea said…: i would like to say that i work in child care in Australia and we celebrated St George day with in our centre as a multicultural event!!; April 23, 2006
Anonymous said…: My wife and I are both english nationals now living and working in Canada. We have been here for almost seven years now and tomorrow we will be flying the Cross of St. George off of our deck (as we do most days in summer)whilst ‘Jerusalem’ booms across our veranda and garbed in our England shirts. If only the english in England could celebrate as freely as we can in Canada without being constantly chastised and abused by the politically correct establishment, then we might consider returning to good ol’ Blighty, that green and pleasant land! For Harry and St. George !!!!!!!!

COME TO CANADA AND BE FREE TO FLY THE FLAG AND EXPRESS YOUR ENGLISHNESS TO THE FULL!; April 23, 2006
WD Gilhooley said…: Though living in New Zealand, I am proud to be English and remain so. Yes I am a permanent resident here (because of the weather)but I am not a NZ citizen . I see no reason to become one.Today the 23rd is a day I look forward to each year so I may celebrate my Country “And did those feet in ancient times, tread upon Englands green and pleasant land” I love my country and I am saddened by the bureaucrats in Brussels who seek to destroy our nation by political subterfuge. Rule Britania.
Billyg; April 23, 2006
Anne O'Brien said…: My flag is already out. I’m just about to write my St. George’s day cards for hand delivery. The sun is shining on this glorious land. Happy St. George’s Day everyone.; April 23, 2006
Anonymous said…: I may be only 13 but i feel that not being able to do things like that is school is dispicable. A football shirt does not cause offence. It mearly shows a supporter of a football team. This schools rules should be changed as it is pathetic to do this to children!; April 23, 2006
Sergi said…: I am catalan and it’s funny to celebrate saint george’s day the same day than english, even more, because my brother in law is from England and we have the same day to celebrate it. In Catalonia the history/tradition tells the same history about the fight against the dragon and that finally saint george died because of the contact with blood’s dragon and in that place grew a rose-tree, that’s the reason because boys give a rose to their girlfriends and girls corresponds the present with a book.
Nice traditions in both cases. We should be proud of our symbols.; April 23, 2006
Alfonz said…: The fact that we do not celebrate our national day is a disgrace and pc gone mad. Every other nation celebrates their day even we spend more on St Patricks day than on St Georges and for what reason? Maybe to celebrate all the I.R.A bombs and bullets over the last 36 yrs, who knows? The union flag is called racist, yet this country has stood its ground against tyranny twice in the last 100yrs to give these people the freedom to express themselves so openly against the symbols of our country. In schools children are told that they cannot wear English football shirts in case it offends kids of different nationalities! Its a child in a shirt wanting to be David Beckham for the day and score a goal for his country! We have all done so why should it be any different for kids today? It’s about time we stopped trying to apologise for the days of the empire and appreciate that without those days we would have nothing worth defending now. We appreciate our country for what it is, England not of the United Kingdom but of what it should be known as Great Britain.; April 23, 2006
Anonymous said…: Happy St George’s Day to all the English wherever they may be. It is so English that we allow others to do as they wish and we remain quietly in the background. Our family has always spoken of St George on this day and ensured that we are all proud to be English. Our Council do not approve of the English flag so we will fly ours in the back garden, as usual.; April 23, 2006
kirsty said…: This morning on the 23rd of April 2006 AD my daughter of 8 sits on the floor wearing England pyjamas watching a documentary of the murder of Charles the First . The Red Cross of ST GEORGE hangs outside of our window flapping in the rain !!!!!!! whilst i wait for my nails to dry ( painted with my countries colours )i sit on the computer sending this message and reading yours . This year i have spent most mornings on the walk to school teaching my youngest daughter of 3 God Save The Queen and Jerusalem and my mum and i send each other cards celebrating our nationality every year . My parents brought me up to love and respect my Queen and country and i shall do the same with my family. CRY GOD FOR ELIZABETH , ENGLAND AND ST GEORGE . Have a lovely day; April 23, 2006
Mac said…: To the knockers of our great country,”get stuffed”, England is THE best place on earth to live.
We should kick out all those who come here and try to change our laws and way of life.
All our schools should be ordered to celebrate St. Georges day, we need to remember our great inventions and games which have made this world a better place.; April 23, 2006
Lynn said…: I am proud to be English and also sad that we do not celebrate St George’s Day. I have St George’s flags which i fly with pride (not just for football events).When touring abroad on my motorbike i fly the English flag with pride.Please let the authorities recognise and organise a celebration for this patriotic day!Also another niggle for me is when i fill in an official form i would like to enter that i am English not British!; April 23, 2006
Kat said…: HAPPY ST GEORGES DAY EVERYONE! My friends and I have been celebrating St Georges Day for the past 6 years. We always take the day off work and wander about town dressed up and we always have a wonderful time. Sometimes, though sadly not often, we encounter others celebrating and when ths happens there is always a wonderful commradery. I would be sorry to offend anyone by being what I am, English, but I think that is more their problem than mine. We wouldn’t be having discussions about whether it is appropriate for me to openly be a girl after all. It is part of my identity and I’m proud. Have a great day.; April 23, 2006
Anonymous said…: i think england should be able to wear the rose or their flag i think these polical cerrect people are gone mad we let others celerbrate they days from other countries so why not let the english fly their flag or wear there rose; April 23, 2006
Anonymous said…: HAPPY ST GEORGES DAY!!!; April 23, 2006
CHRIS (13) said…: I think it is ludicrous that our national day is almost totally ignored. At my school, about 50miles east of london, st patricks day was celebrated by almost all the students. Their were irish flags around the school and to fit in many pupils pinned clovers to their blazers.
Personally i think for st patricks day to be celebrated at a school hundreds of miles east of ireland is ridiculous.
English people should be proud of their history and not give in to what is ‘politically correct’.
Raise the flag and sing: GOD SAVE OUR GRACIOUS QUEEN, LONG SAVE OUR NOBLE QUEEN, GOD SAVE THE QUEEN. LEND HER VICTORIOUS, HAPPY AND GLORIOUS, LONG TO REIGN OVER US, GOD SAVE THE QUEEN!

HAPPY ST GEORGE’S DAY!!

!UP THE IRONS!; April 23, 2006
Souleater said…: Today, I am going to wear my flag proudly. At a high school where I live a child was suspended for writing “God Save the queen” on his book. Normally detentions are issued for graffiting books, but the asian teacher saw this as racist!!!! Also, one 16 year old was given detention for calling a teacher “love” This is a normal English phrase. Political correctness in schools has gone too far….

I wish you all a happy St Georges day,and I hope you all do something that demonstates your Britishness.

🙂; April 23, 2006
Julie said…: ENGLAND if I moved to any country I would expect the country to fly its flag and be proud of its origin?
WHY? is ENGLAND so ashamed of its flag and its englishness? people who come to England im sure would love to see English people, proud of the country they live in.
and all those who abide in the uk would then live as in ROME! when we travel we respect the customs of the country we visit may be because the people respest there country and its customs!; April 23, 2006
Herbidatious said…: It is ridiculous that schools stop celebrations for St George’s day due to allegedly being politcally correct. Our children are taught and encouraged to participate in celebrating other countries festivals etc but not our own, Politcal Correctness gone mad, I think so. The only time you see England flags being flown is when the England football team are playing in a major final. Try stopping Americans flying the stars and stripes in the US who do not need a ‘reason’ to do so other than being patriotic.; April 23, 2006
Anonymous said…: Happy St Georges day…English and very proud!…we are wearing our England tshirts and have our flags flying with pride!……

HAVE A GREAT DAY…..

England…….a word of such magnitude cannot possibly be said without feeling an immense sense of pride!!!; April 23, 2006
Anonymous said…: Yes of course we should celebrate St George’s Day I always have and flags adorn my house and car today! Just been to the local Tesco to fill up with petrol and a lady customer said how nice it was to see ‘our flag’ London ought to have a parade in honour of this day after all Ken Livingstone organises one for St Patrick, but one can’t help thinking he’s only interested in minority groups so we English don’t stand a chance do we!!? Happy Saint George’s day to all and God Save the Queen!; April 23, 2006
Anonymous said…: i think that we should be allowed to celebrate OUR saint’s day because we are ENGLISH. Why should we have to keep quiet in OUR own country ? HAPPY SAINT GEORGE’S DAY – HAVE FUN & FLY YOUR FLAGS HIGH !!!!!!!!!!; April 23, 2006
Anonymous said…: As an Englishman living in Finland,I celebrate St George’s Day by having the English Flag flying on our balcony. Political correctness be damned! I am pround of my country,its history and the achievments of its people.; April 23, 2006
Michael said…: I myself, am incredibly proud to be truly English, i think it is a great culture, a great country, great people, a country to be proud of!!! Although many people may disagree with being called British instead of English, i am in support of them, however, i still am proud to be British, after all, England is the head of the UK, and i think in that respect we should all be proud of the unity between England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland…perhaps a day to celebrate being British too (it will mean another holiday)? Is there any other union you can think of that has four major countries in? So as i strongly support being English, i also support being British.

Anyway, just think of all the great things we’ve done – the inventors, the scientists, the explorers, the leaders, the royalty. Such great things this country has embedded in it’s deep and proud history… which brings me to another point – why are we made to feel ashamed of our history – i don’t understand, each and every country has their bad history – does that stop them having pride for all the more good things they’ve done…NO!

The Empire for example – a perfect example, yes, it influenced slavery, yes, we invaded other countries which resulted in many deaths, yes, the leaders at home had a care only for money, but… just look at all the good it did. At it’s peak it covered one whole third of the entire world!!! The actual countries that were in the empire and that we founded are some of the largest and/or richest countries today, for example, we practically started America, Canada, and we did start Australia, and don’t forget all the other small colonies.

At the end of the day, the Empire did infact do more good than bad, and it made way for many more countries and people and although the Empire has now collapsed (simply because it is the end of the age of Empires), the British Empire influenced heavily on the world, and how many other countries old Empires do you know that still have strong conections with some of their colonies? Don’t forget it was of course, England that was the centre of Britain and so it was the centre of the British Empire. Think, we have also fought heroiclally through two world wars – at some points, almost completely on our own… and we won… TWICE!!! That is definitely something to be proud of.

Getting back to the point, if all the foreigners are going to start criticising each and every tiny piece of English culture such that they (the muslims mainly) want to see the London red buses taken out of service because they find them “offensive”, then they should damn well go back to thier homeland. The buses are a trademark to London, and to England, this will all route to them stopping us from celebrating things like St. Georges Day – what gives them the right to do that? What will it be next – they don’t want us celebrating Christmas because they find sparkly baubles and decorations insulting? They definitely shouldn’t stop us from celebrating St. Georges day. WHO DO THEY THINK THEY ARE???!!!

It is also down to the government and “Political correctness” they should get that out of thier heads and get it into thier heads that we don’t care, and they shouldn’t care about all the foreigners, all the fuss about British instead of English, and all the rest of it. They should give us a national holiday on the 23rd, and make a big thing over it!!! We should celebrate our national day just like every one else!!!

We should have huge celebrations, not only in London, but all over the country on St. Georges day. I think it would also be good if there were speeches given by H.M the Queen (and other royalty) and the Prime Minister on the day, broadcast over national TV and radio. It would also be good for English celebs to get involved massively too, for the younger generation, and not only that – specific TV (and radio etc.) broadcasts on the theme of England, with programs also for the younger generation. It would obviously have to invlove schools too.

I think that we should permanently fly the English (and British flag) – decorate the streets of London and all other cities and everywhere with them, make us fly the flag with pride and joy all over the nation!!! Every time i see an English/British flag, in any form, it certainly lifts my spirits. If we were to just have a national holiday, and the things i’ve suggested actually happened it would be excellent.

I today will be celebrating the glory of this nation with pride. I hope you can join in too, and i hope that one day the government will too, and make it one of the greatest and glorified days in the whole year in England.

Thankyou for taking the time to read my comment and i hope you greatly support me in everything i said. Thanks.

LONG LIVE ENGLAND!!!

HAPPY SAINT GEORGES DAY!!!

Yours, in great support of St. Georges day and England,
Michael R – A proud Englishman.; April 23, 2006
laurence said…: I BELIVE ST GEORGES DAY SHOULD BE CELEBRATED THE SAME WAY AS ST PATRICKS DAY.
THERE IS A LOT MADE OF THE FACT OF WHAT MAKES YOU ENGLISH BUT THAT CAN BE SAID FOR MOST COUNTRIES.
PARTS OF SCOTLAND WERE RULED BY NORWAY AND HAD A STRONG VIKING CONNECTION ALSO THE SCOTS WERNT THE FIRST PEOPLE IN SCOTLAND THE PICTS WERE SO THEY CANT REALLY SAY THEY EXSIST AS BEING TRUE SCOTTISH.
IRELAND HAS BEEN SETTLED IN BY PICTS SCOTS AND ENGLISH SO THERE NATIONAL IDENTITY IS NO DIFFERENT FROM OURS. ST PATRICK WAS EVEN IRISH HE WAS A ROMAM-BRITAIN LIVING IN ENGLAND.
I FEEL SADDENED BY THE WAY EVERY THING TO DO WITH ENGLAND IS FROWNED UPON.
I FEEL PROUND OF OUR HISTORY AND PAST AND WHAT THIS COUNTRY HAS GIVEN TO THE WORLD IN INVENTORS,EXPLORERS,POLITICS,MUSIC ,ART,AND ROYALTY.
I AM PROUD TO CALL MYSELF ENGLISH AS I CONSIDER MYSELF ENGLISH FIRST, BRITISH SECOND AND EUROPEAN LAST.
EVERY YEAR I FLY THE FLAG FOR ST GEORGE AND THE ENGLISH SHOULD STAND UP TO SAY THEY WANT TO CELEBRATE THERE NATIONAL DAY INSTEAD OF ALWAYS COMING BEHIND THE REST OF BRITAIN WHO SEEM TO BE ABLE TO CELEBRATE THEIR NATIONAL DAYS WITH GRT EVENTS,WITH NO DOUBT ENGLISH TAXPAYERS MONEY.
COME ON EVERYBODY FROM EVERY CULTURE AROUND THE WORLD WHO CONSIDER THEIR SELVES ENGLISH,STAND UP AND BE COUNTED AND RAISR=E ST GEORGES FLAG TODAY.; April 23, 2006
Anonymous said…: Happy Saint Georges day!!; April 23, 2006
TRICIA said…: How can it be that everyone else but the english are allowed to proud of who they are and where they come from. I run a pub and have flags in each of my 6 windows and banners through out and no one will tell me that i cannot, I am very proud to be english and very proud to celebrate my birthday on our national day.
HAPPY ST GEORGES DAY TO EVERY BODY WITH A VOICE; April 23, 2006
Anonymous said…: This Government and most of all those lefty councils who persist in knocking the St George flag at every oppertunity should be made aware of the growing discontent among people in this country of their disgraceful behavier towards our flag.You cannot do anything patriotic these days without some “LOSER” in the council making comments about upsetting minority groups,so beware “LOSER” the Rights on the way back!; April 23, 2006
Brian Lentz said…: Well done to the above school, let’s have more of it, for we who live in England should not be so ashamed of a person who stood up for right against the might of the rulers of the day and who became the battle cry of those defending what we have today !!

Regards

Brian Lentz; April 23, 2006
Dave said…: I think it is totally outrageous to even consider being “Too English” or a school banning all England related material saying “Englishness could cause offence”.
This is racism in reverse!!!; April 23, 2006
Anonymous said…: Many English people are asking why we can’t celebrate St. George’s Day. I’m English and proud of my nationality. I live in London and NOBODY is going to stop me flying my flag, be it on my desk at work during the world cup (although I was challenged 4 years ago about my ‘misconduct’ by a Nigerian colleague) or outside my flat. I’m going to Covent Garden now to enjoy the celebrations there. Don’t give in to this pc madness and enjoy a very happy day. PS. If you can’t find a flag on sale, just make your own…a big white sheet hanging outside your home should do the trick.; April 23, 2006
st george said…: proud to be English,of course we should celebrate St George’s day,if the ethnic minority’s dont like it go back to ther own country. Because if we were in there country we would’nt have a say in anything they do.; April 23, 2006
Alex said…: I note that there are lots of postings about discrimination against the English, these are preposterous lies. These posters usually claim to be proffessionals and that they heard it from some other proffessional, usually a family member. This is a device used by extremist groups to spread their ideology. By claiming to be someone of some import it makes the information appear to be more credible and gives it more gravitas. It is clear these people are not who they proffess to be and are poorly poorly educated by their inability to properly use the English Languge.

I could not care less about anyones nationality or religion. No one should be persecuted for their nationality or religion. I do not see why anyone should feel pride over their nationality, its not an achievment, just an accident of birth.

My family have lived on these islands for thousands of years, long before the German and Norman invasions. For the past one thousand years my family have been forced to live in abject poverty, belonging to the people who sit in the House of Lords and on the Throne. Why would I want to celebrate that.

English history is full of great achievments, they are not my achiements, it is also full of persecutions, genocide, ditatorships, religious intolerence, imperialist conquests, war and slavery, both here and abroad, they are not my crimes.

It is appears that more people celebrate St Patricks day as this is seen as a fun reason to get drunk, and for many it celebrates freedom and throwing of the yoke of Imperialist oppression. Celebrating St Georges day could be percieved as the opposite and a celebration of power.

Nationalism can have an important role in uniting people to defeat an invader, unfortunatly it can be used to whip up hatred against others. Many of the postings on the site appear to be designed do this and give unverified accounts of events.

I do not see any reason why you should not celebrate St Georges day if you want to and if you are celebrating for the right reasons I hope you have a great day. If you are celebrating because you think being English makes you superior to others, how do you shape up to Brunel, Stephenson and Flemming. What have you achieved to be proud of. What great things have you done. Don’t say that foriegners are taking your jobs and opportunities, they are not. You have the advantage, if you can’t succeed in your own country, don’t blame others for your own shortcomings. This goes for all nationalists not just English ones.

I believe that if the Human Race is to survive we need to do away with the ideas of nationality and religion. Nationality and religion divide us.

For those who will think my Nationality is important, I am English, of Welsh origins. I do not celebrate any patron saints days. I am an Atheist.

When you celebrate today remember celebrating St Georges Day celebrates diversity. We English are a mix of Celts, Germans, Vikings, French, Dutch and hundreds of other nationalities including recent immigrants such as Nigerians, Pakistanis, Yemeni’s etc. All these peoples contribute to this countries wealth.

As a footnote, St George was from the Middle East and he may have been a Roman soldier. He definatly was not European.; April 23, 2006
Anonymous said…: In these days of political correctness it’s ridiculous that we don’t celebrate St. Georges day, it’s all gone too far the wrong way, we pander to minority groups and constantly deny our identity because it’s deemed racist! We need to stop being ashamed of being English and Christian. (It goes without saying there is no place for racism or persecution in any nationality); April 23, 2006
Anonymous said…: yes i agree for stating that you are english and nationalist ur often branded either a neo nazi facist or a racist ? this country of ours going back 12 generations atleast has allways been predominantly prodestant or roman catholic not muslim or hindu, so why do our inherited rights as english people get denied ? in favour of do gooding folk who think its right to earn hugh salaries off all the jobs created to prvide assistance for ethnic minorities ? y dont they want to speak ENGLISH or dress as westerners ?; April 23, 2006
Anonymous said…: This is idiotic! how can you cause offence by celebrating your country by wearing its banners and emblems. i have nothing against any races, beliefs or people with different skin colours.

whats wrong with over englishness? Guess what country we are in?!

If they get offended by people wearing England Shirts and St. George’s flags then they should go back to the country from which they feel accustomed too or where their anscestors came from and celebrate their faiths there.
as i stated above i have nothing against other races or cultures i just disagree with the veiw that wearing the English emblem is wrong.

ps: my spelling and grammar is really bad but you get the point 😀; April 23, 2006
Alex said…: After reading some more postings I now see why many people feel there is somthing wrong with celebrating St Georges day in England. Its the term PRIDE, that keeps getting used. No one should be ashamed of being English or any other nationality, but most nations do not go on about PRIDE all the time. THe Nazi’s used that term a lot as well as talking about so called threats to Germany and German Nationality.

St Patricks day is a religious holiday and possibly a celebration of Irishness. I never see Irish people talk about St Patricks day as a celebration of their greatness and to show their PRIDE in their nationality. It is the English that go on about PRIDE and greatness. That form of nationalism scares me. None of the posts talk about a love of England only pride as though other English peoples achievments make them great.

There have never been any times when school children have been banned from wearing England football kits, its a blatent lie. The English are one of the most privaliged nations on the earth, we live a lifestyle beyond the dreams of most of our ancestors.

I love the freedoms that we have fought for in this country. I live in an area with a great deal of ethnic diversity, one thing that unites us is the love of freedom. One of the reasons people come here is because of our laws and freedom of expression. Remember it was ordinary people who struggled for centuries to win those freedoms. It is only in the last hundred years that we have been a democraic country, Women have only been able to vote for less than ninety years.

Celebrate your love of England, celebrate the achievments of some English people, even ignore the worst aspects of history but don’t celebrate Englands supposed greatness and don’t keep going on about pride, as we all know pride comes before a fall.; April 23, 2006
Anonymous said…: Great to see so many people celebrating our National Day, just a pity there is not more of us. We need to be united in our celebrations, lets make it a public holiday, give the English people something to look forward to and plan for each year, lets fly our flag(s) with pride and celebrate together.; April 23, 2006
Anonymous said…: The school with EFL students who won’t allow any expression of Englishness should be sacked.

I am not going to be made to feel a stranger in my own country!

If it’s ok for a St Patrick’s Day parade in England or a 4th July celebration by Americans and others here (and I have no problem with that, nor am I expected to have one) it must surely be ok for a St George’s Day parade, or any other celebration of our nationality.

I bet I’m not the only one fed up with the overt stupidity of political correctness.; April 23, 2006
Anonymous said…: I live in a country town, in the County of Kent, England.
The name of the town is Tonbridge.
Today, Sunday, 23rd April 2006, St. George’s Day. A parade will pass through the town centre to religious services at the Tonbridge Parish Church & another religious centre in the town for Services. Following which the parade of Scouts, Venture Scouts, Explorer Scouts, Cub Scouts, Beavers from the Tonbidge District, (Scouts) & Guides, Ranger Guides, Brownie Guides, Rainbows of the Tonbridge Division (Guides) led by the 17th Tonbridge Scout & Guide Band will make its way to Tonbridge Castle Lawn. As it has done for many years. My daughters participated in this annual event until each in turn went off to university. Firstly as Brownie Guides, then as members of the 17th Tonbridge Scout & Guide Band. One of them missing only one year at Tonbridge when the Band were asked to provide a Corps of Drums at Windsor Castle for the Queen’s Scout ceremonies taking place that day. Their places at Tonbridge being filled by instructors & junior members of the Band. In 1995 we had French visitors who enjoyed the occasion very much, who had no idea until then that the English, or some of them celebrated St. George’s Day.
Such a stereotype is due in no small measure to the media, politicians who are trying to erase the English, or all references associated with England & the so called ‘chattering classes’ So let us say, “For England & St, George, let the detractors begone”.
Let us celebrate Our National Day.; April 23, 2006
dean said…: I personally think that it is disgusting that the powers that be feel we have to supress our national identity so as not to offend others.This is England and we are English.Other cultures are free to celebrate their own national days and festivals on Britains streets and we accept that.Is it not fair to expect the same kind of tolerance back especially as it is a celebration OF the host country IN the host country. If someone chooses to emigrate to the USA and become a citizen they have to swear an allegeance to the flag and obide by that countries rules,we have no such thing in england and i feel we should.I am not that patriotic to be honest but i do take offence to being told what i can and cant do,especially in regards of the culture of our country in our country,I would dearly love for an opportunity to celebrate St Georges Day along with my fellow Britains of any colour and creed.C,mon Britain,Lets stand together before we lose our identity totally to these wishy washy people who are afraid to stand up for themselves and their beliefs in case it offends someone,Being British is ok,Celebrate it,Lets be what we are and let others accept us as that.I am all for a multi racial society and i believe that people from other countries should celebrate their nations heritage as they wish but lets also expect them to respect our heritage,if anyone was to be offended by that then i would have to suggest that they have no place in our free society and consider living elsewhere.; April 23, 2006
jackie martin said…: This is political correctness gone mad! If we teach about other religions and customs in our schools then celebrating St George’s day is no different. I think, perhaps, the wearing of logo’ed sports wear is not justifiable for various reasons, but not celebrating a good man’s work (or high intentions) is a nonsense.; April 23, 2006
kay said…: Why on earth shouldn’t each country be allowed to celebrate its Patron Saints Day. St. Davids Day is celebrated in our schools with concerts, dressing up and competitions regardless of colour, creed or anything else. It is a “Welsh” day for everyone in Wales. Other cultures in this country celebrate their traditions,such as the festival of light, the chinese New Year etc., and so it should be. No one attempts to stop them so why shouldn’t the English celebrate St. George’s Day. Come on England show your loyalty, get together and fight back!; April 23, 2006
Anonymous said…: As an American, I don’t understand why England cannot celebrate Saint George’s Day. He seems like a very worthy character. It sounds like PC attitudes are running rampant. I hope Englanders will prevail and let their love for their country be known, and if others don’t like it, too bad. LL; April 23, 2006
Joanne said…: As an English woman that can trace her ancestory back in Yorkshire to the Civil war, I can truly proclaim my self to be English and Yorkshire and by hecky thump am I proud of that!

I instill this feeling into my children – be proud of who we are and where we have come from.

I will continue to be proud despite the inane comments that are abound in the press and in people’s minds re racism. What absolute tosh that is!

It is about time that we as a nation proclaim our heritage and claim it back from those who wish to deny us our achievements – both good and bad ( what country doesn’t have it’s dark moments). All these experiences have made our country great – so great in fact that so many others want to share it with us!

So to all of you out there – have a great day – celebrate loudly – let everyone hear! But remember we are English all year round – doesn’t that feel great?; April 23, 2006
John said…: I was a Royal Marine then a Village Bobby in Topsham,Devon back in the 70’s before emigrating to Toronto to continue my police career.I’m now retired and live in Wondeful Southern New Brunswick Atlantic Canada but still love everything about England..LONG live the Queen!! exroyalmarine@hotmail.com; April 23, 2006
Diane said…: Yes, let’s celebrate St. George’s Day. Why not?

George sounded like a really incredible chap and I’m proud to have him as the patron saint of my country, dear old England.

Have a marvellous ST. GEORGE’S DAY everybody.; April 23, 2006
Anonymous said…: Reading through the comments, it is obvious that the majority of reasonable people want to show their pride. Why is it that we are made to feel guilty for this?; April 23, 2006
brenny said…: its disgusting that we are not being allowed to celebrate St Georges Day………i know 4 sure i will be partying it up here in canada – so i think everyone should get to the nearest park and pub and wave those flags till there arms drop off!!; April 23, 2006
Anonymous said…: It is totally wrong for any school in England to forbid discussion or celebration of England’s patron saint or flag.

It is bordering on racist, to allow the wearing of other National colours but not the English.

If the foreigners who come here do not like our country or it’s flag, that is their problem. Other countries do not prevent their children celebrating their country or it’s flag, for the sake of visiting English people.

God save the Queen and bless this country England and our flag.; April 23, 2006
Anonymous said…: My sight is deteriating,Is that the reason I did not perceive any St George flags at the marathon !; April 23, 2006
Peter said…: Wither now the upturned head ?Where the man to lead our breed.
The Churchillian era now well past,is this England’s end one well might ask?
Are we to sink or are we to drift.in this vast worldly rift, where Honour is scoffed at Truth remote!!
Surely among us be among us be a man so great, above misguided lies an hate.To lead us forward as never before, to power and greatness that well might awe, foul aggressors contemptuous of law.
Surely ,surely right is might .
Not at long last might over right??
All people who consider themselves English and in England live.
PLEASE SPEAK UP FOR ENGLAND AT ALL LEVELS OF SOCIETY AND PARTICULARLY IN PARLIAMENT. GOD BLESS YOU ALL AND LONG LIVE ST GEORGE.; April 23, 2006
Anonymous said…: I am very much in favour of celebrating St George’s day, I love England and I’m very proud to be English. I’d love to celebrate the day, the only thing that concerns me is that St George’s Day turns into another excuse for lager louts to get drunk, fight and generally disrespect the English flag.
Lets do something POSITIVE to celebrate the day!!!; April 23, 2006
Anonymous said…: Oh Poor poor England! What has it come to when so called “political correctness” forbids us to take pride in our country and celebrate St.Georges day; when schools forbit the exhibition of pride in being English.
Is this the sort of country our fathers and forfathers bravely fought and gave their lives for? Would they have given their lives so bravely if they had known that their mother country, England would in future bow its head low to hide and cower lest it be thought to be offensive to those whome it welcomed to share its English heritage?? My God!,what is this “political correctness” and where does it come from> Surely it cannot come from those who love this glorious country of ours.; April 23, 2006
scotty said…: I am a born and bred pedigree Englishmanm, created through beautiful english blood of my parents. I am extremely patreiotic about my country. I celebrate every year ST Patricks day not a big affair but will put a rose into a jar and get pissed on Home brew only produce in an My english house and drank with english people. Just a word about all the ethnic minorities i am not a racist by no means. I hope though that all none english born people remember that its your choice to be in our beautiful country celebrate our day, speak our language and follow our ways. If not P~~~ Off and have some respect for people who want to do some good for this country. We all must make a stand with regards the none english coming in and stealing our jobs and makin there mark before our kids have time to cus our goverment wont. I will always were my red and white with pride because black and white is suddenly becoming grey everywhere you look. Never in my eyes. GOD OUR QUEEN. kiss kiss kiss

From a very happy born and bred English man.; April 23, 2006
Anonymous said…: hi sharon from coventry yes i feel we should have a big prade and evenets to mark st Georges day all the other faith and events take place why not a good old british one for a change ps i had to work today so i did not really celebrate it; April 23, 2006
Anonymous said…: I live in a country town, in the County of Kent, England.
The name of the town is Tonbridge.
Today, Sunday, 23rd April 2006, St. George’s Day. A parade will pass through the town centre to religious services at the Tonbridge Parish Church & another religious centre in the town for Services. Following which the parade of Scouts, Venture Scouts, Explorer Scouts, Cub Scouts, Beavers from the Tonbidge District, (Scouts) & Guides, Ranger Guides, Brownie Guides, Rainbows of the Tonbridge Division (Guides) led by the 17th Tonbridge Scout & Guide Band will make its way to Tonbridge Castle Lawn. As it has done for many years. My two daughters participated in this annual event until each in turn went off to university. Firstly as Brownie Guides, then as members of the 17th Tonbridge Scout & Guide Band. One of them missing only one year at Tonbridge when the Band were asked to provide a Corps of Drums for the Queen’s Scout ceremonies taking place at Windsor Castle that day. Their places at Tonbridge being filled by instructors & junior members of the Band. In 1995 we had French visitors as our guests,who enjoyed the occasion very much, who had no idea until then that the English, or some of them celebrated St. George’s Day.
Such a stereotype is due in no small measure to the media, politicians who are trying to erase the English, or all references associated with England & the so called ‘chattering classes’ So let us say, “For England & St, George, let the detractors begone”.; April 23, 2006
Ollie said…: Im english, living in the UK,

To those people who have posted, believing that no one would prevent someone celebrating their national day, you are wrong. Last year at my university (The university of Bradford)(and i know of another university that has done the same), they specifically prevented us from flying English flags ANYWHERE on campus. We were not allowed to celebrate at all. That was last year, this year, it has fallen right on the last day of the easter break, and with the on-going AUT strike, its been over-looked.
However, next year, im going to make sure that campus is aware of St Georges day. I get leaflets, flyers, all kinds stuff every single national day that comes around, yet when st georges day arrives, its glossed over like some dirty secret.
Is this fair?
I look at americans patriotism, and just think for a second, what would happen if someone told just 1 of them that they couldnt celebrate their national day on their own soil.
Im aware that St George wasnt english, that he almost certainly never even visited england, but thats a moot point, what is important, is that we have been stripped of our civil liberties. Im not that patriotic, but when i came to university, i came to realise its importance to my identity. Its not who i am, buts its certainly a part of me. Its my home, and damnit, im going to celebrate my country.

Happy St Georges day everyone.; April 24, 2006
Anonymous said…: I’m an American who has been living in the UK for two and a half years. I am saddened that I have met so many unhappy citizens in such a beautiful country, and it’s all because of this PC movement drek.

I have seen and heard many horrible ways in which the English have been asked to shut up and take it for the good of pandering politics. I have yet to meet a citizen here who doesn’t make the same complaints you’re making, and I cannot understand why the government remains in denial of the fact that had this been any other country, there would have been riots by now. It pushes the tolerance boundaries too far.

As an American, you’re right, there is NO WAY we’d give up July 4th for the good of sappy, misguided, elitist politics. (I say that, but now we’re not allowed to celebrate Columbus Day, which used to represent the discovery of America but has been relabeled as the day the Native Americans were doomed to slaughter by whites — so I guess anything can happen with the media and schools behind it.) I also think the difference is that most people in America really want to be there and want to celebrate their way of life and what the country stands for. I’ve not found a single English person who feels that way about England — why?!?! Politics and the elitism that surrounds the term. (Look up the word “politic” sometime, and you’ll see what I mean.)

I feel the schools are to blame, and parents need to read those textbooks their children are studying. The propoganda engine begins there with the politickers who use textbooks as a medium for their misguided soapboxing. Learn what your children are being spoon fed, and take action against it.

And do take back St George’s Day, your flag and your pride at being English. One look at any county map will show you the millennia of gorgeous history and landscapes. It would be a shame if such a proud past were to remain only in the past.; April 24, 2006
Julie said…: I live in Runcorn Cheshire and we have a St. Georges Day Parade around Runcorn,The go into a church for a church service on St. George.
All the Scouts, Cubs and Beavers, are invited along… but sadly the police are saying this year might be the last time we can do this, as they cant afford to police the Parade any more,
We just cant seam to keep the old walks we used to have going any more ! it pretty sad to see thius go.
Beaver Leader from Runcorn In Cheshire; April 24, 2006
Bob said…: To be born an Englishman is to have won the first prize in the lottery of life. This is as true today as it has always been. We should be proud of our achievments and celebrate them accordingly. Schools should concentrate on teaching our history and heritage and promote our culture. Our passports should show English as our nationality not British. It seems every man and his dog can call themselves British these days.

We need to protect our tradition of free speech. We have always been able to laugh at ourselves and if we make jokes about other nationalities and their religions so be it. If some members of the ethnc minorities in this country get offended by this and our flag. what are they doing here? Surely the reason for moving to a different country is having a liking for that country’s culture.
Nobody is forcing them to stay here. To be fair though, a lot of the problems are caused by the type of white liberals who read rubbish such as the Guardian.They appear to have some sort of guilt complex about certain events in our history and feel therefore we must bow to Johhny foreigner’s idiotic sensitivities.

Now look Blair. To hell with multiculturism, political correctness and religious sensitivity. I will continue to say and write what I like and you can do what you like with your ill thought legislation.

We know you hate England otherwise you would get out of the EU, stop grovelling around the USA, stop that cretin Prescott from trying to break England up into seperate regions and allowing the building of houses, distribution and retail parks over the whole of the English countryside. We’ll soon have Carpetright, PC World and B&Q; every mile from Lands End to John 0’Groats. I could call you a traitor to this country but then again you’re not English are you? Who is English in the government?

English and proud of it.; April 24, 2006
Anonymous said…: I think we should celebrate St Georges Day and be proud to be British although we have not always done things to be proud of neither have other countries. We bend over backwards to not cause offence and our national heritage is slowly being diluted. You would not find the French or Scottish or Irish and Welsh denying their national Heritage; April 24, 2006
wendy west said…: As an English person I am disgusted how St Georges day is not given the coverage that other Uk patron saints are celsbrated & St georges day is not politically correct. I feel lot of the English also let the side down, by not flying the flag & celebrating their history & it is also William Shakespeare birthday. I feel anything English is dismissed.; April 24, 2006
Anonymous said…: I think St George’s Day ought to be celebrated more. I’m a school teacher and we certainly celebrate it. Today we were exploring how brave St George was, even in the face of danger, and how he helped others. I used the story of St George to help the children realise that they can do anything, if they are brave enough and work at it. He’s a great inspiration. We have a right to be inspired by our patron saint, and to be proud of our country.
When I lived in NZ everybody was proud of their country. I worked in kindergarten and one of the kids favourite songs was the national anthem. I doubt if half the adults in my school could sing the whole way through the first verse, let alone the 2nd. Lets be proud of our great heritage and honour all those who have sacrificed much to create it for us.; April 24, 2006
Anonymous said…: god bless england, we are being classed as being racist for wanting to be english yet they flock to our country and take advantage then play race cards.
they impose their beliefs on us and we have to accept our government is selling our souls, we are being etnically cleansed and they wonder why we are turning patriotic!
after everything our ancestors and relatives have achieved for us to live the way we are, only yo be destroyed by power and greed. when is our nation going to wake up to this?
i stood proud with my national flags on st georges day only to receive odd looks, i am not racist but i am slowly turning as i feel we are being forced!
no one likes the english, but they are all happy to come and live here and take over what we have built. bring the power into this country that is for our people first!!!
stand for our country spread the word and be proud!
god bless england, lee; April 24, 2006
Anonymous said…: Saint George is the patron saint of England and therefore the celibrations sould be larger than saint patrick’s day celibrations in england.; April 25, 2006
Anonymous said…: I am an Englishman who now lives in South Africa. There is a community of us here and we in the main still consider ourselves English. We are however required to live to the laws and customs of our adopted country. We would be laughed out of town if we asked them not to fly their own flags because it offends us. We must accept and abide by local customs, culture and the like because we decided to move to their country. We do not complain or attempt to negotiate or demand changes in local life as it is a life we have chosen. It appears to be the converse in England these days! Good luck in maintaining your Englishness as it seems to be an easier job for us who do not live there.; April 25, 2006
Anonymous said…: I am an ex-pat living in Akron, OH USA.

Each year on St. Georges day I put up my St. George flag out side of where I live, my wife (who is American) celebrates the day with me and this time she wore an English rugby shirt too.

It appears that alot of Americans do not know that we have a patron saint and ask ‘are you supporting the Red Cross?’.

St. Patricks day is big here, however most people do not realise that St. Patrick was not Irish –
“The only point about the birthplace of St. Patrick on which there is real certainty is that he was born in Roman Britain, that is, in Britain south of a line drawn from the Firth of Solway to the mouth of the Tyne, and excluding most of Wales.”

The above test was taken from http://www.stpatrickfathers.org/Saint_Patrick/St_Patrick_Life.html

If they can celebrate St. Patricks day we should have a day for St. George.; April 25, 2006
Ishmahhamed said…: We celebrate St Georges day on both 22 & 23. My parents are strict about what I can wear and can’t wear!; April 25, 2006
Anonymous said…: I am English and pround of it. We should celebrate Traditional English Days.
St Georges day should be reconised as a holiday
Why should we celebrate other peoples customs in our country?
They dont celebrate our customs in their countries!!; April 28, 2006
Anonymous said…: IF ENGLISHNESS MAY CAUSE OFFENCE TO SOME PEOPLE OR MINORITY GROUPS WHY ON EARTH DID THEY CHOOSE OUR COUNTRY TO COME AND LIVE IN?; April 29, 2006
Richard Harding said…: I find it absolutely disgusting that we as a nation do not properly celebrate St Geoges day and that we are actually
discouraged by our own government to do so.

I am extremely proud to be English and always put out the flags both on my house and on my car.

It is great to see that so many people share my view and it is encouraging that more and more people are starting to display St Georges flag on the 23rd; May 05, 2006
john of basildon said…: Any true Englishman or Woman knows that the true patron saint of england is SAINT EDMUND.; May 09, 2006
Gerry said…: SOME OF MY MATES ARE MUSLIM AND THEY ARE SICK AND TIRED OF THE POLITICALLY CORRECT MORONS USING THEM AS AN EXCUSE TO BAN ENGLISH PEOPLE FROM FLYING THE FLAG OF ST GEORGE AND CELEBRATING ST GEORGES DAY,THEY ARE SUPRISED IN FACT THAT MORE ENGLISH PEOPLE DO NOT THE FLAG, AND ALTHOUGH THEY ARE NOT ENGLISH BY HERITAGE THEY LIVE IN THIS GREAT COUNTRY OF OURS AND WILL BE CHEERING FOR ENGLAND IN THE WORLD CUP.SO THE POLITICALLY CORRECT CAN STICK THEIR ANTI-ENGLISH OPINIONS WHERE THE SUN DONT SHINE, THIS IS ONE ENGLISHMAN WHO WILL NEVER STOP FLYING THE FLAG OF ST GEORGE; May 21, 2006
steve said…: The celebration of Englishness and St George is ridculous.We English are Germans ect and St George was born in Turkey of Palestinian parents.Political Correctness can be silly but patriotism is often ugly and sometimes lethal.; June 10, 2006
Anonymous said…: i beleive in celebrating being from enlgand. i dont claim to be entirely english because as we know that would be near impossible what with migration of our forefathers. but i beleive in supporting where i was born. people do not like it but if people stood up for what they had faith in then maybe wed win!!
now that the world cup is here people are flying the flag high and good on them. others dont ahve to agreee with what we are portrying but have no right to agrue. this is england and england should be proud!! i am; June 13, 2006
Andrew said…: The reason St George’s day isn’t celebrated in England is because the English aren’t allowed to.

The government hit hard against anything that may be a sign of patriotism.

Although It’s alright to be patriotic to any other country.

The oppression of English culture is creating a divide between its indigenous people and immigrants that have now settled in England.

Things are changing though, the English are getting fed up with the Labour party and its poor management. It doesn’t look like they will serve another term in government.; June 22, 2006
Anonymous said…: I dont see how we live in OUR country and they choose to live in our country, but we cant support England etc.
We are expected to respect them, what about us!!!
Do we not deserve any respect?
I am proud to be English and have a flag on my house and little girl of 5 proudly wears her England kit.
Sorry! I am not apologising for being English.
Regards
Amanda
Wigan, Lancs; June 26, 2006
Anonymous said…: The English are an ancient northern people composed of three main strands which are Saxon, Engle
and Jute- all germanic tribes with a shared culture.We came overin the 5th century AD originally at the request of the British(Welsh) who could not defend themselves from the Picts( scots)and then finding the country to our liking we made it our home through invasion.By the late 9th century we had become a united English nation. There is really no mystery about our origins.The deliberate confusion about’what is English’ is a product of anti- English racists with their own decadent self-loathing political agenda, backed by the BBC and media propaganda. English History is not taught in our schools as it might give our children pride in their country. The only time an English hero is mentioned he or she is subverted into ‘British’.
We need St. George’s Day as a rallying point for English pride. We need an English parliament and an English- not British national anthem too. It is time to stop carrying the ‘British’Empire past around on our back like chains and face our bright future .But just as importantly we must save our children from the brainwashing that tells them they should be ashamed to be English and are not worthy members of their own nation.; July 03, 2006
Anonymous said…: I am so glad to have found this site so I can air my view on ST. Georges Day..Without a doubt it should be a big event.. In my eyes it should be a bank Hoilday!! They down grade it in schools compared to ST Patricks day where they ask you to let your children come into school wearing something Green. Its so important to teach our children our English Heritage. Being Proud and Patriotic of your Country should not be taken as a Racists Remark!!!!!; July 04, 2006
Anonymous said…: also glad to have found this website. England is the only country in the world WITHOUT it’s own government. the government we have is a British government full of scots and welsh (Tony Blair and John Prescott being prime examples and hence why ‘our’ government doesn’t want Englishness)if I had my way, the St. Georges flag, the flag of England, would be flown proudly on every town hall and national heritage site. (castles, museums etc;) just like the red dragon is flown in Wales and the St. Andrews cross is flown in Scotland. make St. Georges day a national holiday and give England back to the English. even the city of Barcelona is proud of St. George; July 15, 2006
Tony said…: Hi,
I would like to know what has gone wrong with the uk? Why is it acceptable to fly the st Georges flag and emblems when there is football world cup and yet it is unacceptable for us to do the same for st Georges day, as a
born and bred english man, I feel this is an infringment of our countries history, most of our young think it is a football flag. I was born in the late nineteen fifties I can remember when england was a proud nation and yes we did celebrate st georges day as a family thing not exactly a national party in my area, but the schools did let us make the flag and teach us about it. But it seems to have gone wrong when we joined the common market, it has taken our identity away from us and allowed the foriegners in to demand we celebrate their days and find loopholes to suppress our own celebrations.Our governments seem powerless to stop it. It now seems we are the minority so lets turn the tables and use thier rules against them, fight fo our rights to celebrate our own special days and traditions.; July 17, 2006
Xando said…: I, too, am proud to be English and I always fly the St Grorge’s flag at every possible occassion.
I heard somewhere that a local council wrote to someone who was flying the Red Cross and telling him that he had to remove it for the usual reason that it could offend. The guy ignored this demand. He received another letter saying he would be prosecuted if he refused to remove the flag.
This guy did some research and found that there is a very old law on the statute books that says anyone who tries to prevent an Englishman from flying his National Flag can be charged with Treason. He quoted this old law and never heard any more from his local council.

My question is, is this story true and where can I find that particular law?; July 21, 2006
Mike.P said…: I didn’t realise so many people aired similar veiws as myself,which was very satisfying to read and reassuring to discover.
I am English not British and not living in the United Kingdom. I live in England but why aren’t we encouraged to say this? Lets start school education with you are English and the St George Cross is our national flag, what is so wrong with that? We need a strong English govermant with a real belief in English heritage!; July 21, 2006
Mike.P said…: On ST Georges day the English church will fly the St Georges cross Police stations will fly the Union Jack. How wrong is this?The english law represents England and Wales Scotland and Ireland are not encompassed so why do we fly the Union Jack? Why are we made to feel racist if we declare we are pro-English? I am an Englishman,not British and not from the United Kingdom. English and proud of it why doesnt’ the English parliament promote this belief, a pride in our heritage!; July 21, 2006
Kim said…: How sad it is that our children are taught to be embarrassed to be English and display their “true colours” by wearing the flag of England. How sad it is that in our own country we are embarressed to celebrate St George’s Day for fear of upsetting our colonial neighbours. I have recently joined the Royal Society of St George as I believe as an Englishman it is my duty to raise the feeling of pride to be English. Not to let the silly sods think its all national front stuff, but to be proud of our heritage, our laws, the way we talk and protect our way of life. For St George and The Queen.; August 15, 2006
Anonymous said…: I think it’s a sad state of affairs that our children aren’t allowed to wear the St Georges Cross in their own country & I think it is a disgrace that we are being oppressed. We are a race of people that are not allowed to be proud of our heritage & fly the flag. It’s political correctness gone mad.
Also, I find it strange why Ken Livingstone funds St Patricks Day but does not recognise St Georges Day.; November 23, 2006
Anonymous said…: Keith, A proud English subject.

Why can’t we be proud of St.George and of being ENGLISH. it has already said that to celebrate OUR NATIONAL Day may cause offence,……….TOUGH. I am proud to be ENGLISH and will celebrate it if I want to. My wife is Scottish and we have rubbed along very well for 34 years, I have Welsh and Irish friends, we all get along and live in harmony. What in Gods Holy name is all this P.C stuff coming to. I heard that in some offices there is a ban on Christmas decorations. I am also a Christian and if I want to celebrate a Christian Holiday and call it as such instead of “Winter Festivities” I will. Why can’t these silly people who are afraid of “upsetting” other people just let us be English and to be proud of the fact. The chances are that nobody is upset about our being English. Why should we let the loutish, racist behaviour of a minority ruin our right to be proud to be English; December 06, 2006
Ron said…: I am English and proud of it.People from other places visiting England should respect that fact and all the cultural differences that go with it.If these people do feel offended by our customs,Flag, or anything else English or British then they should go back to wherever they came from.If these people wish to live in England then they should not be allowed to unless they accept that we are different and are prepared to adapt to our way of life and respect it.Maybe the more radical amongst us can see further than the sheep.
Ron; December 11, 2006
Anonymous said…: As a english man and a soldier of the crown i say we should have a st georges day it is disgracefull that we cant celebrate our own patron saints day as it might upset other minoritores
god save ENGLAND; December 12, 2006
Mark said…: As an English man living in England I celebrate my nation’s day as I choose. If this causes offence to so- called ‘liberals’ (who are in fact the cause of most of the country’s racial problems with their pc rubbish) that is a bonus. In celebrating this wonderful day,the 23rd April we also happen to be rejoicing at the birthday of one of England’s finest- Will Shakespeare!The government is now strenuously trying to supplant St. George’s day and turn it into ‘Shakespeare Day’- They hate English people so much they want to deprive us of our identity and pride in who we are. The Normans tried too but the English always fight back and win in the end!; January 05, 2007
Anonymous said…: ……………and so April 23rd will soon be here and it is to be hoped all those who have made comments will make an effort and be ready to celebrate St George’s Day. With nine friends and fifty or sixty other people, I’ll be attending an event with ‘flag raising, poetry reading, singing- probably lead by the school choir – (Jerusalem, Rule Britannia etcetera) and prayers conducted by the local vicar’ at a village pub in Hertfordshire. As in previous years, we will all enjoy the ceremony celebrating our National Day with a bugle call as the flag is raised, toasts to St. George and the joy – if we’re not allowed to be proud – of being English ……………… not forgetting the lunch afterwards!; January 18, 2007
Anonymous said…: how can it be offensive to show your proud to be English, in England. Surely If anyone would take offence to that, they are living in the wrong country. I have seen the national flag of every country that i have visited, and seen the locals wearing thier national shirt with pride, and I have never once been offended. Patriotism is not racism. Good luck to everyone on St Georges day whatever country you come from; January 20, 2007
Anonymous said…: I would very much like to see St Georges day celebrated with the same enthusiam as St Patrick. I am a scout leader and English and proud of it. But even in scouting the parade is a celebration of St George being the patron saint of scouts not of England. Too many people are concerned about upsetting the ‘visitors’ and we are loosing our own identity, bowing down to their wishes and making life pleasant for them, allowing them what they wish under the guise of not wishing to upset anybody and political correctness. The English need to stand up and not be pressured with political correctness into insignificance. Being English is not being racist and should never be seen as such. We are probably the most tolerant nation in the world. It is not a religious statement, it is patriotism and pride that everybody should have for the country they choose to live in. This is England, visitors should accept it and its people for what it is, don’t change it to what they chose to leave behind.; January 21, 2007
Tania said…: I will certainly been celebrating St. Georges day, wearing my red roses with pride, not only because it is my birthday, but because he is Englands patron saint.

As a scouter I, with the rest of the Scout movement will be parading and attending a special services on the Sunday before (22nd) as Scouting has St Georges as the Patron Saint of their movement.

It is a disgrace that our Patron Saint is forgotten, when other saint days as celebrated within our country.

I do feel proud that Wallasey Town Hall, here on the Wirral flys the George Cross on 23rd April.

I am very proud to be English.; February 12, 2007
Anonymous said…: God save the Queen and God save England! who knows, by the time the P.C. brigade have finished with us that may be the only option!!!!

It is not racist or bigoted to be proud of your heritage. That would imply that only a certain pocket of society in England would want a national holiday for St George…
Simply not true,

It would seem to me that the Government is ashamed of England’s multiculturalism, why else would they deny us the chance for once to stand united in celebration for all to see and let us start to build bridges for stronger communities and a nation of pride?; February 27, 2007
Anonymous said…: ask the public i bet most would love to celebrate the day what ever their culture… i live and work in a very mixed area and they all said they will celebrate the day… its just the so they think do gooders…
have a great st george’s day.; March 03, 2007
Mark said…: I believe that St. George’s Day is different from St. Patrick’s Day which is basically a Guinness marketing exercise.
I feel that it should celebrate our unique genius which is for humour, song and literature- plus the morris men of course.
We need to celebrate what we are and perhaps spend a little time with our history books too if we want to rescue our children from the deliberate deculturalisation and subversion of our state run national curriculum which attempts to make our children ashamed of those they should hold up as role models.This same education also writes out Alfred the Great,Hereward the Wake, Athelstan, Canute, even Harold who gave his life trying to defend his people, describing them simply as barbarians.A people who are denied their roots cannot grow.A country that has had it’s history stolen can have no future (I paraphrase Sir Winston Churchill’s words)
St. george’s Day IS important for the English people.68% voted in a recent ICM poll for an English Parliament – the tide is turning and like King Canute Tony Blair Gordon Brown and the repressive regime they belong to will soon be washed away – and good riddance.; March 05, 2007
Anonymous said…: Ev : You should come and see our St George’s Day Festival here in Tewkesbury. There is even a special St George’s ale! Bands play. There are mediaeval minstrels and in the grounds of the famous Abbey, St George fights the dragon and frees the maiden. Good triumphs over evil but in a humorous and good natured way. There are fancy dress competitions and races with children. – all this after a parade through the town when many dress in mediaeval costume.It is always well attended.The dragon sets fire to a little house first to show how dangerous her is. At the end a huge dragon is burnt as the sun goes down.Tewkesbury is north of Gloucester and on the M5. The parade takes place in the evening at 6 I believe as St G rides through the town to start the festivities! We have a huge mediaeval festival in the summer which reenacts the Battle too but that has got huge with would be Wars of the roses soldiers campting in tents the night before.The evening is rounded off with beheadings! Heads are made of papier mache and often not very successful but it adds to the humour of the reenactment of he battle.So our little corner of England is loyal! St George died to protect Christians and the weak and vulnerable and deserves to be remembered!; March 07, 2007
Anonymous said…: Another comment about the St George’s Day flag. The cross and flag of St George is also mystical and represent the Paschal Sacrifice, that is the Holy Communion, a powerful protector in Mediaeval times, which is why it is found in many Christian Countries and particularly (apart from England that is) in Eastern Countries as St George died in Palestine.The dragon is generally thought to be a symbol of all the evils in the world againstwhich he fought . Ev; March 07, 2007
Becca said…: Celebrate St Georges Day in style, dust off your England Flags and hang them high and proud. Be proud to be English, who cares if its politically incorrect, do we moan when Hindu’s celebrate Divali.

Have a party and celebrate like the Irish do, in style!!!

Happy St Georges Day!; March 16, 2007
Anonymous said…: how sad that we as english people can not celebrate our patron saint.
no one complains when the Irish walk around in their green hats, or the Chinese hang up lanterns for their new year, or the Hindu’s celebrate Holi. this is our nation and we should be aloud to be proud!!; March 28, 2007
Anonymous said…: i feel sadden that we do not celebrate in a huge parade in central london
iam londoner bron and breed
mr livinstone allows every other culture in england to day to celebrate in central london excet the enlgish
we are a strong country with strong values and we should be pround to say we are english and celebrate this fact like all other countrys; April 09, 2007
John Heald said…: This is ENGLAND and we should be proud to celebrate our DAY. If it offends non-English people then they have the same rights as I have: the right to leave !!; April 10, 2007
David Jones said…: I am proud to be English and I feel that we, the English, should be allowed to celebrate St. George’s Day on 23rd April, in the same way that other minorities (and we are now a minority) do. If anybody objects then they should return to their native land, whether that be Scotland, Ireland, Wales or further afield.
I am always asked to be tolerant of others and I feel that it is time that others were asked to be tolerant of me in my own country. Why should I be ashamed of being English?; April 10, 2007
Elizabeth said…: I am English and proud of it! I live in America and proud of that too. I embrace my “Englishness” and am proud of it. You should be proud of who you are, where you came from and where you are now. You should never have to hide how proud you are of your country. You should be proud and celebrate loudly and not feel scared that you are offending anyone – you are not saying that you arent great by celebrating your “Englishness”. If “They” chose to live in England they should also celebrate their part of being in England. We celebrated July 4th with everyone even though it was sort of against “us” the English! I think it is great that they celebrate History – St George is our History and should be celebrated – if anyone gets offended by us celebrating then perhaps they chose the wrong country – however my guess is that it isnt the people we think that get offended at all that would mean they were stupid and I dont think they are. It is the politicians and the “Do gooders” that tell us that we are being offensive as it goes against their big picture. As English people we usually sit back and dont complain. I think it is time to stand up for the country we are proud of and shout it out. Show our flag with pride, show people that England isnt dead yet. We are holding a St Georges day party in America! Everyone here is Irish on St Patricks Day so we are going to start a new tradition and hope that everyone is English for the day! Dont let England become extinct keep England alive there is a lot to be proud of – the world has already chosen English as the language of the whole world, how sad would it be if England didnt exist anymore. Politicians need to know that they are not serving their people if they decide that England is allowed to disappear, they will have a fight on their hands. Come on England! I’m proud of you!; April 12, 2007
lisa said…: i will be celebrating st georges day & wearing a red rose with pride.i found this site while looking for information about st george,to teach our beaver colony (young scouts).after reading all of the comments it will be interesting to see how many other english people wear a red rose with pride on april 23rd; April 13, 2007
Anonymous said…: Yes, England should definitely celebrate St. George’s Day in a true and joyous manner, just as the Irish celebrate St. Patrick’s Day (but without the division of Orange and Green). England was a vast empire. It was a proud country with a world-wide reputation for fair play and honesty. What’s happened? Let us bring England back to the English! And by that I do not mean send all the immigrants “home” I simply mean let our Englishness be our pride. Let us stand up for what we believe in. Let us return England to its former glory and let us encourage immigrants to our land to learn of us, accept and integrate with the English way of life, just as any European country expects English immigrants to integrate into their way of life.
I came to Canada, not by choice, but because my family were emigrating and I didn’t get a choice. And although this vast and beautiful country has been very good to me, I still get homesick for my “green and pleasant land”
Shame on those in England who do not allow us to be English. Why must we worry about offending someone, when no-one seems concerned about offending us? And if those people want to live and work in our country, why should they be offended? Have we been offended by them, building their own religious buildings? And/or following their way of life in their own traditional clothing? Of course not, so why should we be made to feel ashamed for being something they obviously envied, otherwise they wouldn’t have come to live here.

“For England and St. George”

Dorothy Clifton; April 15, 2007
Indy said…: I totally agree with most of tyhe coments here. I am of Indian Parantage and I am getting tired of the political correctness in this country. i t seems that my English friends are being alienated by this PC business. I wan t to celebrate St George’s day and I do! I just wish the English would join me!
Indy; April 16, 2007
Anonymous said…: I have been teaching in this country for 20 years and have taken British citizenship. I agree that St. Goerges day should be celebrated, as we celebrate all other multi-faith festivals. The flag should not be the domain of a few thugs.; April 16, 2007
Robert said…: Agree with everything that has been said.

I too fail to understand why we should be dictated to over this issuse. Perhaps we wouldn’t be seeing such a sad decline in social values today in this country if we were encouraged to feel more pride in it.

It is TOTALLY absurd to suggest that our national flag could cause offence and I for one would love to see it become a more central part of our landscape.

I am tired of having to ‘apologise’ for my own heritage and culture. I still love this country and no one has the write to tell me differently!; April 17, 2007
Anonymous said…: I think it is disgraceful that we do not celebrate our heritage because it “may cause offense”. People who have come to England for whatever reason should be encouraged to celebrate the history and heritage that has made our country a safe haven for so many people!

I also feel that if we celebrated our heritage with events such as St. George’s day, we as a nation would have a greater sense of identity and pride and so may not feel so threatened by people coming into the country and so may well see a reduction in the incidents of racially motivated crime!; April 18, 2007
Anonymous said…: WHEN WILL PEOPLE OF ALL RACE’S
LERN IT IS NOT RAIST
TO BE PROUD TO BE A ENGLISTMAN; April 18, 2007
Anonymous said…: I think it is very important that we teach our children about our Patron Saint. As a Brownie Guider each year at Brownies we look at St George and do quizes and activities linked to him. Our girls have also taken part in our town’s English fetival which marks St George’s day.; April 19, 2007
Anonymous said…: As a welsh person living and teaching in England I am shocked that the English are not proud or not allowed to be proud to be english . My class celebrated St David`s day and next week the whole school are having a red and white day for St George . I have taken an assembly about it and only 2 children knew who their patron saint was , we all have to be proud of our heritage and not let the `looney left ` tell us that national pride is racist !; April 19, 2007
Andy M said…: Every true ENGLISH person should celebrate St georges Day. IF this offends any other race religion …. LEAVE… our once great country; April 19, 2007
Anonymous said…: It’s also traditional to wear something blue on St Georges day Because blue was his personal colour, the order of the garter was founded on St Georges day, and blue bells often common at this time of year are Englands first national flower.
Btw when did Blair start to believe we should be classed as Citizens, taking citizenship tests and the like? We’re Subjects to the noble crown of England, of which other countries that got rid of their monarchies and decided to have politicians as leaders are now envious!
I have donned my armour and paraded as out saint through my home town and leaving roses bound by a blue ribbon at the senitaff for years now, I, up until 3yrs ago was laughed at by my fellow countrymen as a wierdo, most did not know that 23rd of April was their day…. they do now and I am cheered for my efforts, and bunting goes up, still not enough yet though.; April 21, 2007
ricky said…: As A black man I have to say that it is dangerous not to have a defined English culture. In order for the multi-cultural soceity to work it is vital that we have a strong english culture so the others can orbit around it. if this does not happen then we will be in danger of many cultures competing to become the dominant one…..
Ricky in Birmingham
ricky@ueponline.co.uk; April 21, 2007
george bailey said…: If you were born in England and/or live in England you should have the right to be proud of your country and your nationality – polictical correctness seems to insist we (English) celebrate and respect eveyone else’s nationality, religion and beliefs but frowns upon celebrating our own heritage for fear of offending someone.; April 21, 2007
Anonymous said…: Yes , Yes Yes we should celebrate St. Georges Day. I will fly mt English Flag.; April 22, 2007
Lisa73 said…: I think we should make st georges day a bank hoilday celebration.as i’m proud to be english and alot of my friends are.we should stop all the political correctness that is ruining this country.fly the flag with pride i say forever england; April 22, 2007
charlotte said…: I think it is pc gone mad. other communites are allowed even incoraged to celebrate their days yet we are shouted at. I have been called a racist, im 14. Im not christain and belive in magic so have been called a saintainist by the non white people in my school. I wear a flag every year on april 23 since I was born and I dont care but the teachers do nothing when I reported being shouted at. I was scared they were going to hurt me yet the teachers did nothing. people have been racist TO ME yet when I report this nothing happens, they said that I was racist becouse I only like white singer at the time I was listerning to Adam ant I repied with how many white rappers do you like, another reason was becouse i were havy black eyeliner and listen to punk, goth, heavy mental,electro, new wave bands and watch horror film, what they dont know or refuse to believe is that I also like 50’s music all the way up to 2000. How can there be one rule for english people and another for imigrants. like others in forms I say I am english and the form has either been thrown in the bin in front of me or they have demarded me to change it and when I refuse I get sent out of the room. I will teach my children to proud to be english.; April 22, 2007
Amanda said…: I live in a small garrison town in Wiltshire on the edge of Salisbury Plain. The whole area has been well used by not just our fighting forces but also those of varied allies for over 100 years. They are actively training young men and women to go and defend the rights of others~ free speech, equality and health. Why is it then that these who could be regarded as ‘modern day St. Georges’ can not buy a single St. G day card in the whole town. It is about time that the day was recognised as our national day. Having ‘National pride’ doesn’t mean that I’m one of those ‘Nationalist’ nutters that have stolen so much iconagraphy for their viler purposes. More over that I am proud to be British and really proud to wear my English rose tomorrow.; April 22, 2007
Anonymous said…: This is England; why shouldn’t we celebrate our national day? How is it politically incorrect?
We are not saying/doing anything against immigrants, so what reason do they have to be offended? Are you offended by celebrations of other cultures?
Even if people are offended (which I am sure they aren’t) this IS ENGLAND!! We have every right to celebrate St Georges Day.; April 22, 2007
Anonymous said…: I am a teacher – and found this forum while researching for my assembly tomorrow morning – which is about St. George’s Day! I have done a PowerPoint with the background as an English flag. I can’t see any problem with this as I teach in an ENGLISH school.; April 22, 2007

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Saturday, March 18, 2006

Celebrating the UK’s National Days

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