Should the fasces on the wall of the House of Representatives be taken down? I'm torn.

[malchickiwick]

On the one hand it is the original symbol of fascism (not to mention the source of the word itself) and has been embraced by neoNazis as well. The wanna-be soldiers of Vanguard America uses the symbol on their plastic shields during their various circle jerks.

On the other hand, I understand why the founders and subsequent generations embraced the symbol. The American Republic was inspired by the Roman Republic, and the fasces does represent e pluribus unum.

The symbol also appears in many other places, by the way. For years it was on the back of the dime. It is also worked into the chair in the Lincoln Memorial.

Anyway, I know there are much more pressing issues out there. But in light of the current national debate over other public displays in the Capitol building, I couldn't help think about the prominent display of the fasces in the House chamber. Notice how they flank the Speaker's rostrum.

[uponit7771]

1. All signs of traitors and oppression should NOT BE memorialized (check your links)

[jrthin]

2. Agreed. n/t

[malchickiwick]

6. The symbols were co-opted by them, so isn't that a form of surrender? (The images appear fine to me)

[Wounded Bear]

3. No, that would be submitting to the NAZIs...nt

[Squinch]

4. Are you torn? Are you really?

[malchickiwick]

5. Yes, actually, I am torn. I gather you are not, but you don't say how you feel.

[COLGATE4]

7. No, but we should take down all the feces on the walls!