Flags

Flags

Myli will be introducing the display of desk flags across all of our library branches. The flags will be placed on the circulation desk at all four libraries. If you have any feedback, we’d love to hear from you.

Guided by members of our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) group, the first set of flags will include the three officially recognised Australian flags consisting of the Australian, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags.

We will also be including a separate display of the Intersex Inclusive Progress Pride Flag, which celebrates the diversity of the LGBTQIA+ community and serves as an indication of allyship, of a safe space and community.

Our vision at Myli is to encourage connected, inclusive and resilient communities that are supported to grow and thrive. It is also important for us to align with the Standards and Guidelines for Australian Public Libraries, which has this to say regarding honouring our Traditional Owners:

“An Acknowledgement of Traditional Owners should be visible on the library website and within each library facility (e.g. in the form of a sign, flags, plaque, wall decal, commissioned artwork). … The library can create a visible Indigenous presence in the library space, for example, through signs (e.g. welcome or acknowledgement of the local Aboriginal community and traditional owners), Aboriginal flags, displays and artwork.”

Below is a brief history on each of the flags:

Australian Flag: Adopted 1901, the Australian flag combines the Union Jack, representing historical ties to Britain, with the Southern Cross constellation, symbolising Australia’s location in the Southern Hemisphere. The Commonwealth Star signifies federation, while the blue background reflects the surrounding ocean. It’s a unifying emblem capturing Australia’s history, identity, and geographic context.

Aboriginal Flag: Designed by Harold Thomas, the Aboriginal flag features a black panel symbolising Aboriginal people, a red panel representing their connection to the land, and a yellow sun depicting their spirituality. It is a powerful symbol of Indigenous identity, culture and pride.

Torres Strait Islander Flag: The Torres Strait Islander flag, created by Bernard Namok, comprises green and blue horizontal panels representing the land and sea, divided by a black central panel with a white dhari (traditional headdress). It symbolises Torres Strait Islander identity, culture, and connection to the region’s unique environment.

Intersex Inclusive Progress Pride Flag: The Intersex Inclusive Progress Pride Flag was designed in 2021 by Valentino Vecchietti, combining the Progress Pride Flag with the Intersex Pride Flag. The flag is designed to represent the LGBTQIA+ community and bring marginalised people of colour, transgender people and intersex people to the forefront.

The introduction of these desk flags at Myli Libraries supports our vision to encourage inclusivity and respect among patrons. The chosen flags symbolise unity and acknowledgment of diverse cultural and community groups within our library spaces. We welcome respectful conversation and feedback from our community as we strive to maintain vibrant hubs of learning and connection for all.

Why do we need flags in the library?

By displaying these flags in our libraries, we are creating a visual representation of diverse identities, cultures and communities within the library space, demonstrating that we are an inclusive organisation committed to creating connected and resilient communities.
Which flags will be displayed?

Myli Libraries will be introducing four desk flags, including the Australian flag, the Aboriginal flag, the Torres Strait Islander flag, and the Intersex Inclusive Progress Pride flag.
Where will these flags be displayed?

The flags will be placed on the circulation desk at all of our Myli library branches.
How were the flags chosen?

The flags were chosen based on recommendations made by our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) group. Our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) has been recently formed to guide our organisation toward taking meaningful action to strengthen relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The Pride flag was voted upon by Myli’s Leadership team, as well as members of our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) group to serve as an indication of allyship, of a safe space, community and togetherness.
Why has Myli included the Intersex Inclusive Progress Pride Flag?

The inclusion of the Intersex Inclusive Progress Pride Flag in our libraries serves as an indication of allyship, of a safe space, community and togetherness. Myli aims to promote acceptance, understanding, and support for LGBTQIA+ individuals and communities, fostering an environment where all patrons feel welcomed and respected. This supports our vision to create connected, inclusive and resilient communities that are supported to grow and thrive.
What do the colours in the Intersex Inclusive Progress Pride Flag represent?

The colours in the Intersex Progress Pride Flag represent the following:

Red: Life

Orange: Healing

Yellow: New ideas

Green: Prosperity

Blue: Serenity

Violet: Spirit

Black/Brown: People of Colour

White/Blue/Pink: Transgender people

Yellow/Purple Circle: Intersex
How do the chosen flags align with Myli's vision and values?

Myli’s vision is to encourage connected, inclusive, and resilient communities. The chosen flags reflect the commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and honouring traditional owners, as outlined in the Standards and Guidelines for Australian Public Libraries.
Can you provide a brief history of each of the chosen flags?

Australian Flag: Adopted in 1901, it combines the Union Jack with the Southern Cross constellation, symbolising Australia’s history and identity.

Aboriginal Flag: Designed by Harold Thomas, it symbolises Aboriginal identity, culture, and pride.

Torres Strait Islander Flag: Created by Bernard Namok, it represents Torres Strait Islander identity, culture, and connection to the environment.

Intersex Inclusive Progress Pride Flag: Designed in 2021 by Valentino Vecchietti, it represents diversity and LGBTQIA+ pride, celebrating different identities and experiences within the community.
How do these desk flags honour the Traditional Owners?

The inclusion of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags, along with the acknowledgment of traditional owners, aligns with the Standards and Guidelines for Australian Public Libraries, emphasising the importance of honouring Indigenous presence and culture.
Will Myli Libraries display flags from other nations or community groups?

At this time, Myli Libraries are focused on the current selection of flags. The inclusion of flags from other nations and community groups is not under consideration. However, we remain open to feedback and suggestions from our patrons regarding future initiatives and displays.
What further initiatives are being considered for Myli libraries’ services, programs and events?

Myli libraries are guided by community interest, relevance to library goals and values and potential for positive impact within our community. This comprehensive approach ensures our service, programs and events reflect the diverse needs and interests of our community. We are committed to continuously improving and innovating to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where patrons can connect, belong, and learn.
How do I ask additional questions or provide feedback?

At Myli Libraries, we welcome respectful conversations and value your input as we strive to enhance our services and programs to better serve the community.

Online: You can ask additional questions or provide feedback to the team at the Myli support centre during business hours Mon-Fri 9am-5pm via live chat at myli.org.au or email us at support@myli.org.au. You can also submit an online feedback form via myli.au/feedbackflags.

In-person: Visit your local library for a respectful chat with our friendly team. They can help with answering your questions and listening to your feedback. Paper feedback forms will also be available at the desk for you to complete and return.

Flag Displays at Myli

Flags

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