[jude24]

So, if another racist group use the American flag as it's symbol does THAT then become a racist flag????

There's a critical difference between a racist American group appropriating the American flag and the history of the Confederate flag. There were almost 100 years of oppression of blacks by racists who invariably used the Confederate flag. If the American flag were like that, it too would be considered a racist symbol.

Another great example: the swastika. Before 1939, the swastika could be found all over the place; there are still old buildings around with swastikas on them. But now, in the popular consciousness, the swastika is seen as the symbol of the Nazi party. If I put a swastika bumper sticker on my car, people will think, "Gee, that guy is a neo-Nazi," even though the swastika has an ancient history that predates Hitler.

Therer is much that is noble that is symbolized behind the Confederate flag - loyalty to one's home comes first and foremost to mind. To the majority of America - certainly amongst African-Americans, and northerners - the Confederate flag is seen as the symbol of racists. We think racism first, and The Dukes of Hazzard second up here.

[Puppage]

Thanks, those are good points all.

[stainlessbanner]

To the majority of America - the Confederate flag is seen as the symbol of racists.

They believe this crap on DU. Go sell it over there, son.

[DoraC]

There's a critical difference between a racist American group appropriating the American flag and the history of the Confederate flag. There were almost 100 years of oppression of blacks by racists who invariably used the Confederate flag

A shame, really. It conceals the fact that many Confederates were vehemently opposed to slavery and that they held themselves to higher ethical standards in treating civilians in the Civil War than the Union forces.

[Godebert]

"There's a critical difference between a racist American group appropriating the American flag and the history of the Confederate flag. There were almost 100 years of oppression of blacks by racists who invariably used the Confederate flag. If the American flag were like that, it too would be considered a racist symbol."

You learn that in skool? Take a look at any Klan rally from the early 19th century to the mid-sixties and you will see that the United States Flag was the Klan's flag of choice. It is still used by the Klan today along with the CBF and other flags.

[Godebert]

"To the majority of America - certainly amongst African-Americans, and northerners - the Confederate flag is seen as the symbol of racists. We think racism first, and The Dukes of Hazzard second up here."

That's ok....when we think of you northerners we think of left-wing, blue state homosexuals that want to ban all guns, enshrine "gay" marriage and burn the American flag while prancing around at some pathetic limp-wristed anti-war rally.