For those who believe that the removal of confederate statues is “ERASING HISTORY,” here’s a little analogy for you. If you had been married for years, then got a divorce, removing your ring would not erase the fact that you were married, nor would it remove the history of your marriage. If you were in an abusive marriage, and got a divorce, would you keep that ring on your finger, or take it off and get rid of it because the sight of that ring stood for violence in your life?
Removing a statue DOES NOT erase history. It’s about time we stop edifying confederacy, but instead remove every painful reminder. We need to stand against racism, and fuel anti-racism. Jane Elliott explained racism beautifully, she articulated the fact that if we would not want this treatment for us, (white people) why are we willing to accept it or allow it to happen for others (black people). Why would we want this painful reminder for anyone else?
I understand why protesters are wanting to personally take these statues down. Our current government is known for their blind eye, gaslighting, and favoring white supremacy. The fear that these statues would never be taken down is a verifiable fear. I completely support, and am unequivocally for the removal of these statues, however, also believe that they should be taken down safely.