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Confederate Confusion

For those who use Facebook, you know that it is always asking the question, “What’s on your mind?”   Well, back in August 2017, I was confused about the chaos happening in our country, and I had a hard time wrapping my mind around the attitudes and actions of many of our citizens. I struggled to understand why a minority of this country felt it necessary to destroy or remove confederate monuments that represent the history of this great nation. I do get that not every historical figure represents everyone’s beliefs or convictions. I also get that not all historical figures who are represented in a monument are considered worthy. Some represent negative aspects of our history, so the thinking is they must be removed. 

We have to remember that monuments and statues of historical figures signify that those men and women affected history in some way, whether positively or negatively. Just because what they accomplished may go against our beliefs, is that cause enough to demand their removal or destruction just because we don’t agree with them? Sometimes memorials are erected so that we never forget the gains, losses or costs connected to it. That could certainly apply to the Confederate war, as well as all the other wars in which this country has been involved. Based on the mindset of those protestors, and the political leaders who are supporting them, will the Vietnam Memorial be in their sights?

One such monument representing a historical atrocity is found in front of the Holocaust Museums that reads, “Never Again.” In this case, the event it represents is so evil, the monuments have been constructed to serve as a reminder that something like that should never be allowed to happen again. 

To begin removing confederate monuments just because some citizens find them offensive is to disregard the significance of the event or purpose it represents. A more reasonable and mature solution would be to ask town officials permission to construct a sign next to the statues that reads that some citizens find the monument and what it represents offensive. In that way, those who want the statues to remain are happy, but those who find it offensive get their voice heard. If every confederate flag and statue disappear, aren’t we like ostriches sticking their heads into the sand and pretending these historical events never happened?

My biggest concern is what’s next? What if this is just the beginning of citizens and government removing or destroying everything someone finds offensive.

The most controversial person who ever lived is Jesus Christ, and the symbol of the cross has come to embody everything Christians hold sacred. (I must say here that I detest the usage of the cross the KKK carries, and I do not include them in my previous statement.) Thousands and thousands of churches throughout this country have erected crosses inside and outside their buildings. We adhere the symbol of the cross to our cars, and wear them around our neck. Both past and present history has shown that many non-believers find both Jesus and the cross offensive. So, I’m wondering, is the cross the next target to be removed? Are Christians? Evidence of that has already become a reality, so I’m concerned that if the current negativity and histrionics snowball and the government keeps supporting the minority with the loudest voices, our elimination is not too far off.

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