I LIVED IN New York and California for much of my life, so imagine my surprise when I moved to North Carolina a year ago and discovered that the Confederate flag -- the emblem of slavery -- is as prominent in this area as syrupy southern accents.
As an African-American, I was outraged because I know all too well that those who flew that flag fought the bloodiest war in this nation's history for the "right" to maintain my ancestors in bondage.
However, it is not just African-Americans who should be disgusted by the resurgence of "Confederate Chic," as evidenced by the Sons of Confederate Veterans, who display the Confederate Battle Flag on special Maryland license plates. No one in this nation should forget that the Confederate traitors sought to overthrow the U.S. government by force of arms. Maryland officials wisely decided to revoke the plates of 78 Sons members after black political and religious leaders complained about the flag logo. Maryland should not have approved the logo in the first place. When the Sons requested the logo, the motor vehicle bureaucrats should have asked themselves this question: If Maryland gives its official imprimatur to defenders of the Confederacy, then who is next? The Montana Freemen? The Michigan Militia? Perhaps Maryland should honor all who reject the U.S. government including Timothy McVeigh, one of men charged with blowing up the federal building in Oklahoma. If the charges against McVeigh are dropped, perhaps he'll be honored with a testimonial dinner in Annapolis.
