Jack Watkins
Aug 27, 2017 · 2 min read

Your comment is very thoughtful Ed, and I somewhat agree with you as to not muting our history, except for the fact that the statues you mention as also needing of removal were not erected to commemorate the human flaws of these men as being oppressors (slave holders, or supporters of a repugnant ideology), but rather for some great historical achievement or contribution to the nation, despite any such human flaws we should not overlook in considering that contribution.

Civil War “heroes” like Lee, Stonewall Jackson, Jefferson Davis, etc. were mostly erected in the dark period of Jim Crow Laws (s I cite in my article), and the singular “contribution” of these men that was being remembered in their construction was to tear asunder the nation by taking up arms in open rebellion, all for the perpetuation of a system of racial oppression. There is a not-so-subtle difference and, IMHO, good reason that they should not be commemorated (or celebrated, as many racists still do) in our public squares, nor in front of our government buildings (courthouses, etc.) where they give some warped comfort to those who still cling to the vestiges of White Superiority and racial mastery over our now full-fledged citizens of color.

There is an appropriate place to remember even that darkest period in our history. That would be in historically accurate history books (and school rooms); in public museums (where their context can be made clearer); and on those battlefields which commemorate the blood sacrifice and bravery of soldiers under fire, irrespective of the side the combatants fought for.

As I’ve mentioned in my article, I am a White man, whose family once owned other human beings. But, if I were a Black man— I’m sure I would not be so appreciative of seeing these constant reminders, the maintenance of which is supported by my tax dollars, that some of my fellow citizens still wistfully revere as somehow a “better time” in America,…when it clearly wasn’t for my ancestors!

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    Jack Watkins

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    Freelance Journalist, Progressive Activist. Ret. labor relations professional. Former USAF Intelligence Analyst. Twitter @jaxonlee7