You Can, But You Shouldn't

[struggle4progress]

Over the past several months, we've noticed ... the growing number of Confederate flags billowing in the breeze ... We certainly support the right of individuals to speak out without infringement by the government. But we can't stop there ... Let's be honest. This isn't a Southern state and we are not celebrating a traditional culture of mint juleps and antebellum lifestyle. Even in the South, the Confederate flag carries racist baggage ... It didn't reappear as a political symbol until the civil rights movement sought to desegregate schools ... In Central Oregon, these symbols take on their own context. Divorced from any real Southern roots, only the racism and anti-government inclinations remain. Those two attitudes in combination can pose a serious threat to communities that value diversity, inclusion, and the rule of law ...

http://www.bendsource.com/bend/the-boot-9-30-10-7/Content?oid=2547214