Historic Virginia church to relocate Washington, Lee plaques

[Calista241]

Source: Washington Post

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — A historic Virginia church is relocating two plaques in its sanctuary honoring George Washington and Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee, who worshipped there.

Leaders of Christ Church in Alexandria sent a letter to congregation members Thursday explaining the decision. It says the leaders decided the plaques create a distraction and “may create an obstacle to our identity as a welcoming church.”

The Rev. Noelle York-Simmons, rector of the Episcopal church, told The Washington Post the plaques’ fate had been discussed for years. The decision also comes after white nationalists descended on Charlottesville for rallies that erupted into violence.

Those events have sparked debate about symbols of the Confederacy and the legacy of slavery. The letter says church leaders thought it was important for both plaques to be considered together.

Read more: https://www.washingtonpost.com/national/religion/historic-virginia-church-to-relocate-washington-lee-plaques/2017/10/29/4949822e-bcc1-11e7-9294-705f80164f6e_story.html?utm_term=.ef0281d127a2

[geomon666]

1. One was a founding father

and the other was a traitor. Totally belong together.

[BumRushDaShow]

2. Both were slave-owners and yes, both belong in the trash heap. nt

[no_hypocrisy]

3. Separation of Church and State

That being said, why not have a plaque honoring Dr. King, a minister searching for peace through integration.

[Calista241]

4. Both Washington and Lee worshiped at that church and were members of the

congregation.

[ClarendonDem]

5. I get and support removing the Lee plaque

But disagree with removing the Washington plaque.

[left-of-center2012]

6. Washington was a slave owner n/t

[ClarendonDem]

7. Yep

As were many of the folks who helped found this country. On edit, other slave owners included Ben Franklin, Thomas Jefferson and James Madison. I don't think we should remove plaques or statues honoring those individuals.

[former9thward]

8. Are you going to stop accepting money with slave owners on it?

[Mr.Bill]

9. Now that's just crazy talk.

[Hangingon]

10. If you are that sensitive, perhaps Alexandria is the wrong town for you.

Alexandrai has a very rich Colonial history. Curtis, Lee and Washington are all over the place - along with any other Colonial players. There are reminders all over town.

[samir.g]

11. Good. Throw them on the ash heap of history.

With all slave owners.

[romanic]

12. Did the church members want this?

Seems like it was the decision of leaders only.