Wednesday morning Governor Robert Bentley gave a order to remove the Confederate Flag from state capitol grounds.
Shortly thereafter a Change.Org petition to reinstate the flags was started by Phillip Giddens from Gadson. This petition as of the time this article went live was at 8,393 (June 25, 9:28am CST).
The petition states:
Mr. Bentley, after learning of your call to action to remove the Confederate flags from the State buildings this morning, it’s obvious to us, as citizens of this great state, that we, as your constituents, were not consulted. In efforts for political correctness, it seems that you have offended those in your own backyard. As an elected official, it is your job to act on our behalf, and we were surprised, to say the least, to know that you acted hastily and chose to not be a voice for those without your plaform. Return our flags. Do not apologize for our history and do not give into media propaganda. The South, and especially Alabama, is above conformity. Honor the past of those you represent. Give us back our flags.
Another petition to remove the flags was started by Ralph Young of Birmingham last Friday it currently has 235 signatures. This petition states:
Governor Bentley, it’s time to move Alabama forward. As we join the 21st-century economy, let’s not hamper growth with symbols that may be misinterpreted. I’m talking about the Alabama Capitol’s Confederate Battle Flag. Yes, to some this flag represents southern pride and heritage but many see it as a symbol of hate, separation, and segregation. As you recruit industries from around the world, let’s present a forward-looking, unified Alabama. Governor, do the right thing and remove the flag from Capitol grounds.
Based on the governor’s statement yesterday it seems doubtful the petition to restore the flags will move him.
See first update to this story here: “15,000 signatures and counting for petition to have Governor Bentley restore flag”
Second update to this story including photos of Saturday’s rally can be found here.
