Dispute Arises in a South African Private School Over Flying an LGBT Flag

A dispute has arisen at Bishops Diocesan College, a private Anglican boys’ school in Cape Town, over the flying of a rainbow flag in honor of Pride Month.

On June 23, the Old Diocesan Union (ODU) committee sent a letter to the school council requesting an end to the practice of flying the LGBT flag, which was displayed for two days in June. The committee proposed adopting a formal policy limiting the number of flags on the college grounds to three: the South African national flag, the school flag, and the St. George’s flag. Committee representatives stated that their position is a matter of governance, not homophobia, as raising various symbols sparks debates about which other flags should be flown.

In response, a group of parents, alumni, and staff was formed, collecting around 400 signatures in support of the administration’s actions. In their statement, published by MambaOnline , it is noted that flying the rainbow flag is a gesture of inclusivity, demonstrating the safety and value of LGBT students within the school. Supporters of the flag referenced the South African Constitution, which prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation, and the long-standing tradition of flying the rainbow flag at St. George’s Anglican Cathedral in Cape Town.

College Principal Tony Reeler rejected the alumni committee’s request. In a letter to parents, he stated that one of the school’s flagpoles will continue to fly banners dedicated to various social initiatives. Throughout the year, the college raises flags in honor of Africa Day, cancer awareness, World AIDS Day, and Pride Month.

Former student Anton Taylor publicly criticized the committee’s initiative, noting that the LGBT flag was flown for only two days a year. The discussion also moved to social media, where users expressed different opinions: some supported the school for creating a safe space, while others left comments criticizing the decision.

Previously, in 2024, similar disputes had already arisen at the college when some parents and students asked to abandon the flying of the rainbow flag.