Bishops Diocesan College in Cape Town has sparked significant debate after its Old Diocesan Committee (ODC) demanded the removal of the Pride flag from school premises.

The committee argued that only three official flags—South Africa’s national flag, the Bishops flag, and St George’s flag—should be flown, as other flags risk aligning the school with contested causes.The ODC claimed the Pride flag, displayed during Pride Month, could perpetuate divisive debates about which causes the school supports.However, alumnus Anton Taylor criticized the committee, accusing them of targeting LGBTQ+ students and creating a fabricated issue.

The school’s principal, Tony Reeler, defended the Pride flag as a symbol of inclusion, noting it rotates with other cause-related flags like Africa Day and World Aids Day.

A group called Supporting A Progressive Bishops opposed the ODC’s stance, citing the school’s Anglican heritage and Archbishop Tutu’s advocacy against homophobia.

The controversy highlights tensions between institutional tradition and modern inclusivity, with the school community divided on how to balance heritage with progressive values.