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.