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Newcastle Mayor Defends POW/MIA Flag in Heated Exchange with LGBTQ Activist

A Newcastle City Council meeting reignited a debate over public flag displays as Mayor Robert Clark rebuked an activist's criticism of the POW/MIA flag as a 'political stunt.'

  • Mayor Robert Clark strongly defended the POW/MIA flag during a Newcastle City Council meeting, rejecting claims that its display was a 'political stunt.'
  • An LGBTQ activist criticized the council for prioritizing the POW/MIA flag over the Pride flag, citing the larger LGBTQ population compared to POWs/MIAs.
  • The activist accused the council of hypocrisy, alleging the POW/MIA flag was strategically flown to avoid displaying the Pride flag during Pride Month.
  • Clark emphasized the flag's role in honoring the sacrifices of veterans and warned against disparaging their service in public comments.
  • The controversy reflects broader debates over inclusivity, public representation, and the implications of flying non-governmental flags at city hall.
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