In today’s social climate, with the #BlackLivesMatter movement and the general awareness around any and all racial controversies, it is only a matter of time before the Confederate Flag is eradicated from American soil.
This week, the horrific symbol was banned from all Veterans Administration (VA) cemeteries. The appalling images it provokes – including a terrible saga of slavery, segregation, and racism – deserve no place in today’s society. As a whole, a more accepting and tolerant generation is rising, where all races (hopefully) will be acknowledged as valid and not “less-than” in the way that they have been in the past.
The future looks grim for the Confederate flag. Many potential presidential candidates have denounced the flag as well. Namely, Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump have voiced their negative feelings towards the emblem.
However, with the passage of this bill comes one small exception; small flags are permitted to fly on specific graves, but only on Memorial Day and Confederate Memorial Day.
This amendment to United States law was suggested by Rep. Jared Huffman. He argued, “Why in the year 2016 are we still condoning displays of this hateful symbol on our sacred national cemeteries?” His words stirred up support from his fellow representatives, and the bill was passed.
Many cities are considering not only a banishment of the flag, but of all monuments that commend the actions of the Confederation.
In the wake of the terrible Charleston shooting – in which a white man, in June 2015, opened fire within a primarily black church – a conversation has risen. Nine died thanks to one man’s hatred, and it opened the eyes of many to the deep-rooted racism that surrounds the Confederate flag. The violence of the shooting has motivated many populations to remove evidence of the Confederacy from their respective communities.
The years yet to come do not look bright for the Confederate flag. Many communities are joining the conversation; racism is a prevalent issue in today’s society that demands discussion. With today’s socially conscious atmosphere, there is simply no way that an object synonymous with slavery and racism will be permitted to still exist.
