LAST WEEK: WHO SHOULD DECIDE IF CONFEDERATE MONUMENTS STAY OR GO?

Decatur’s Civil War monument, commemorated in 1908, is a blending of elements, from those characteristic to memorials erected in the first 20 post-war years, to those added much later, from 1890-1920. Despite what many say, this amalgam of styles makes this monument particularly difficult to interpret. We asked readers their opinion on this monument and if it should be moved — a stance taken by one group of petitioners. We also asked readers their take about a complicated and strange state law passed in 2001 which clearly prevents a city or county — the Decatur monument is actually owned by DeKalb County — from removing the monument. We also asked about creating interpretive signage, something giving the Decatur obelisk historical and cultural context, which the state law is silent about.

Here’s what some had to say:

In the Middle East, ISIS has destroyed beautiful ancient statues and architecture in cities like Nimrud and Palmyra. Terrorists have a list of places they plan to demolish for their “cause.” In America liberal political elements have destroyed historical Confederate statues in Charlottesville, Va. They also wish to destroy the beautiful carvings of Stone Mountain. They make lists for future demolition representing their “cause.” — Catherine Boone Shealy

A thoughtful person viewing this controversy should realize that attacking each other is not the answer. All the great cities and regions share a common thread of not chopping off their own roots. Do we see this happening in London, Paris or in any of the great cities? Symbols and monuments are reminders of our roots and should be preserved . ... Let’s respect everyone’s heritage and not chop off our own roots. — Alton Powell

Georgia should build a state history museum in which relics of the Civil War period can be

exhibited with unbiased interpretation, giving voice to multiple narratives. The museum should create an informed, multifaceted knowledge of events and personalities. Enough time has passed for objectivity and accountability in the presentation of the information. — Dorothy Olson

I have never once looked at Stone Mountain and thought “white supremacy.” While doing genealogy years ago, when I discovered some of my ancestors served in the Civil War, I felt pride that they were willing to give their lives — chances are, for a cause that someone told them they should fight for. It wasn’t for slavery, because my ancestors were poor and worked in the fields. Some were as young as 14 and 16, willing to line up, face their enemy while knowing someone likely was going to die. Are we not allowed to feel pride in our heritage? A remembrance of history is not hatred or racism. — Linda Perry