In the previous post, I noted that Réunion has several unofficial flags in addition to the one profiled. Actually, although I chose to profile the flag proposed by the Association for the Réunion Flag, the unofficial flag more commonly used is that which has been proposed by the Vexillological Association of Réunion. While still unofficial, this flag is not uncommonly seen flying from municipal buildings as many localities have adopted it.
This is also the flag flying from our flag pole today.
This flag is said to depict the volcano of Fournaise bedecked by gold sunbeams.
An additional flag of Réunion has been proposed by the members of the Réunion nationalist movement that seeks, quite probably foolishly, independence from France.
The interpretation of this flag is as follows: Green symbolizes the marronage (descendants of slaves), yellow symbolizes the working class and red symbolizes the period of slavery and indentured labour, struck by a yellow star with five points. Take it as you will.
Finally, there is the proposed “cultural” flag of Réunion . It is unclear to me what this flag symbolizes or who has proposed it, nor does it seem to have a great deal of traction on the island either. Again, take it as you will.
Whew! That’s it for the island of Réunion. In our next post we will go around the globe to yet another component of Overseas France, a very small place that attracts the luminaries, celebrities, and ultra-wealthy when they want an escape from the cares of their glamorous lives. Any guesses?