If while getting dressed in the morning I selected this necklace I'd be making the conscious decision to let people know that I am a Christian (
I am, and I have one, but mine is emeralds). The cross has become a symbol of the sacrifice of Christ, to pay for my sins, so that I can be with him in eternity. There is no debate about this. Regardless of your opinion about Christianity or Christ, it's commonly accepted knowledge what this symbol stands for.
Here is a symbol that evokes equally strong feelings, albeit negative ones. The Nazi swastika is a symbol of hate. The bearers of this symbol, both during the second World War and now, admittedly have an agenda of hate, racial superiority and dominance. It doesn't evoke a lot of warm, fuzzy feelings, nor should it. No debate necessary.
Now, what about this symbol? The meaning of the confederate flag and the intentions of those wearing it has been brought to the forefront of American debate lately, thanks to the musical styling of Mr. Brad Paisley (who, as a side note, attends the church where Joel plays in the orchestra every week). It's not a new debate but I wonder why it's a debate at all? It seems obvious that this should be a symbol of ignorance and presumed moral immanence.
One of the things that I was most concerned about regarding moving to "The South" was that I'd be surrounded by a bunch of stereotypical red neck racists. I bet money that I'd get lynched the first week I was here because I mouthed off to Bubba who was driving down the street in his compensation-mobile (otherwise known as a big ole pick up truck), complete with gun rack and confederate flag flying in the bed. I must say, I have been pleasantly surprised at the overwhelming lack of red-neckitude in Murfreesboro. Perhaps it's the proximity to the city of Nashville, or the abundance of institutions of higher education in the area. Whatever the reason, I've found that the only stereotype that applies to the folks (yes, I said folks) here is the one about Southern hospitality. Everyone is very friendly, polite, well mannered, clean and articulate (due credit to Joe Biden on that last one).
I've heard the occasional person say that there is nothing wrong with wearing or displaying the confederate flag because it is just a part of history; an example of southern pride. History, yes; pride, really? The flag has historical significance and symbolizes a time in our country's history that, at best was sad and at worst embraced the willful, systematic degradation of a group of people. What exactly about that makes you proud? It represented a time in history and a way of life that was inherently wrong. To treat people as less than human, 3/5 to be exact, because of an accident of birth is asinine. And don't tell me it's about states' rights. Sure, the Civil War was fought over states' rights. But, the right that they were fighting for was the right to continue the enslavement of fellow human beings. Is that what you are proud of? Really? Cause that's what the confederate flag symbolizes. And if you ARE proud of that then you are a racist, an ignorant red neck (please forgive my redundancy) and a lot of other four letter words that come to mind. I'm not suggesting that Brad Paisley is a racist because of his choice of shirt. I suggesting that to put it on and walk around in it while smiling and acting as though you don't understand the outrage is annoying.
The decision to wear a confederate flag should be no more an innocent choice than the decision of the KKK morons who intentionally propagate hate through the continued use of the swastika. It's history and as a result should stay as far away from our present as possible. Sorry Mr. Paisley, LL Cool J rapping on your song doesn't lessen the stupidity of your wardrobe choice. Seriously, next time just pick a plain black t-shirt.
I embrace Southern pride. But may I suggest that we be proud of the way southerns act today, not the way they acted in the 1800's.
