Manhattan ? The Kansas State University Faculty Senate has recommended that the United Nations flag be flown on campus after city leaders had it taken down from a flagpole in front of City Hall.

The senate recommendation, passed Tuesday, will be forwarded to university administrators for consideration.

The flag became an issue in late March, when Mayor Mark Taussig said several people had told him they did not want the flag flown in front of City Hall. Those who wanted the flag removed pointed to U.N. policies and decisions, including its lack of support for the U.S. war in Iraq.

City commissioners last month agreed to have the flag taken down, saying they wanted to eliminate the focus of so much community divisiveness.

Those who wanted the flag to stay told commissioners it showed that Manhattan was a diverse and tolerant place that was friendly to people from other countries.

“The number one reason to have the flag on campus is for the international students,” said Tony Jurich, a Kansas State University professor of family studies and human services and member of the Faculty Senate who proposed the motion to fly the flag on campus.

While most senators agreed with Jurich’s motion, some expressed concern that flying the flag might mislead some students.

“The U.N. takes sides on issues that are complicated, which could be construed by some international students that we are against them,” said Walter Schumm, professor of family studies and human service.