Jackson Free Press

The following is a verbatim open letter received from Mayor Tony Yarber of Jackson:

Greetings,

Calls for the removal of Confederate emblems from state grounds have intensified across the country in the aftermath of a horrifying tragedy rooted in hate and racism. In Mississippi, our legislative leaders have the power to rid this state of a vestige linked to one of our most shameful periods. Why hold on to it? Removing the Confederate battle cross from our state flag is not tantamount to denying our history, as some contend. To the contrary, we're currently building two edifices in Jackson -- the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum and the Mississippi History Museum – designed to educate our nation about our turbulent and triumphant past.

I applaud all the elected leaders who support the removal of the Confederate battle cross from the flag. The job of elected officials is to act on behalf of those who placed them in office. Our legislative leaders have the ability to bring this discussion to an end. Removing the Confederate emblem requires leadership, not votes. The flag issue doesn't need a ballot. It needs leadership.

This topic has the potential to take our sights off more pressing issues that impact Mississippi citizens, such as education, economic development and health disparities. We should be working together to lift this state and the quality of life for its citizens.

We have much to be proud of in Mississippi. Our economy is powered by automotive plants, shipyards, farming operations, medical facilities, manufacturing plants and some of the best colleges and universities in the country. We are a tourist destination because of our culture, culinary delights, and yes, our history. There is no need to display a Confederate emblem that is out of step with our present and our future.

Regards,

Tony T. Yarber