As most of you know, a Confederate flag was displayed during Saranac Lake’s Winter Carnival Gala Parade on Saturday (during Black History Month) to the surprise and dismay of many in the community. Below is a statement from a historical perspective of why this symbol is so highly problematic in this country.
“The Confederate flag, originally the Virginia battle flag, has become synonymous with hate and violence, notably present at rallies promoting discrimination and insurrections. Serving as a national symbol of white supremacy, its resurgence in the cultural consciousness post-1915’s ‘The Birth of a Nation’ has contributed to the lasting impact of the Ku Klux Klan, which persists today.
“From an ethical standpoint, aligning with a flag representing a nation that supported enslavement and brutal treatment is inherently wrong. Those standing with this flag bear the tarnished legacy of supporting systemic racism, as evidenced by historical and contemporary perspectives.
“Considering our nation’s commitment to rights, we must ask:
“Is it right to isolate Black Americans?
“Is it right to align with oppression?
“Is it right to ignore the perspectives of others in favor of a flag with a problematic history?
“By addressing these questions, we can collectively strive for a more inclusive and just society that rejects symbols perpetuating racism and division.”
Tiffany Rea-Fisher
Director, Adirondack Diversity Initiative
Read this Letter to the Editor in the Adirondack Daily Enterprise.