Confederate flag obviously racist

Re: “The Confederate flag is an emblem of heritage….” Published June 23, 2017

Mr. Rooney, there are major gaps in your knowledge of the history of the flag that you fly in your front lawn. Modern meanings of the Confederate flag have diverged significantly from its use and symbolism during and immediately following the Civil War.

In the 20th century the flag was used increasingly often in contexts unrelated to the Civil War or the commemoration of Confederate veterans.

The flag’s resurgence in popularity came long after the Civil War, when it was adopted in the 1950s by segregationists such as the Dixiecrat political party and the state of Georgia as a symbol of Southern sovereignty and resistance to federally sanctioned desegregation. It continued to be used throughout the 50s and 60s as a symbol of resistance to the Civil Rights Movement by organizations including the Klu Klux Klan.

Contemporary supporters of the Confederate flag continue use it as a symbol in reference to the distinct heritage of the southern United States.

Slavery is inseparable from this heritage, as upholding slavery was a principle reason for the South seeking its independence.

It is not and will never be a symbol representing “freedom and independence from oppression and tyranny” due to its undeniable historical associations with slavery, segregation, and racism.

Multiple members of your community have conveyed to you that flying the Confederate flag makes them feel offended, embarrassed and uncomfortable.

What will you choose to do about it?

Jordan Beaulieu,

Montague