[Samuel]

The Confederate Flag is often explained as a symbol of respect for the Confederate war dead, and as a symbol of Southern heritage. However, in most cases, the flag was not flown, and did not achieve its widespread popularity, until the late 1950s or 1960s, obviously as a protest against the Civil Rights movement. Where was the need for this symbol of respect and heritage before then, other than in close association with the Ku Klux Klan? The fiery allegiance given to this symbol is yet another example of the United States’ propensity to forget or distort popular history in order to appease the whims and conscience of the (white) majority. Have we forgotten that the Confederacy itself was the embodiment of treason, an attempt to destroy the Union? And for what ‘noble cause?’ ‘States’ rights?’ States’ rights to do what? Enslave and abuse their fellow human beings, among other things.

While those who died on both sides deserve to be honored for their courage and sacrifice, we can also remember that most Axis soldiers killed in World War II (many of whom died clinging to various levels of patriotism) did not participate in war-crimes atrocities, and could be said to deserve the same honor. Did that make the causes their respective nations were fighting for honorable? I hope not. How many people throughout history have given their lives for causes that we might deem unworthy, misguided or even wicked? Do we really honor them by distorting the facts about what they died for?

For many freedom-minded Americans, the ‘Stars and Bars’ is a symbol of oppression, treason and divisiveness; its supporters need to take an honest look at history and decide which American ideal they support: the unified America of Abraham Lincoln, where all human beings (regardless of color) would have the opportunity to pursue equality and freedom, or the America of Jefferson Davis and Nathan Bedford Forrest, where the color of someone’s skin determined whether they would be pursuing a lifetime of happiness or brutal enslavement.

User Detail :  

Name : Samuel, Gender : M, Sexual Orientation : Straight, Race : Black/African American, Age : 31, City : Chicago, State : IL, Country : United States, Occupation : Firefighter, Education level : High School Diploma, Social class : Lower middle class,