Scotland should take pride in its ‘world famous' reputation as a
welcoming and inclusive country, First Minister has said.
Celebrating St Andrew's Day, Mr Swinney said Scotland is at its
best when people stand in unity, where differences are celebrated
and where everyone is supported to play their part in building a
better Scotland.
The First Minister said the Saltire Flag stands as a “proud
symbol of the peaceful, inclusive values” that help define
Scotland.
Mr Swinney said:
“St Andrew's Day is a time to celebrate everything that makes the
fabric of modern Scotland – our history and traditions, our
values, our rich diversity of communities and cultures.
“Our nation is world-famous for its warm welcome and our open,
inclusive spirit is something we should all take great pride in.
“We are at our best when we stand in unity and solidarity with
one another, and when we resist the damaging forces that seek to
divide us. By bringing people together and celebrating our
differences, we can all play our part in making Scotland a safer
and more resilient country where everybody can thrive.
“I welcome everybody - in Scotland and across the world - to
celebrate St Andrew's Day and to fly the saltire as a proud
symbol of Scotland's peaceful, inclusive values.”
Background
The Scottish Government's We are Scotland marketing campaign was
launched on 27 November to run on TV, outdoor, digital and social
media channels.
The campaign emphasises Scotland's commitment to compassion,
inclusion and human rights to remind people that Scotland is
stronger for its diversity.
