The name Abingdon is representative of our British heritage. We are not British. We are Americans. Slawville represents the culture and heritage of Southwestern Virginia and the beauty and power of our region. For too long we have submitted to the idea that America is simply British colonies. This simply isn’t true. America, and Southwestern Virginia, is independent. Our independence isn’t complete until these British namesakes are removed. British namesakes are hate, not heritage. Slawville is representative of Appalachian culture. For too long, Appalachia, and the residents therein, have been ridiculed and oppressed for our unique culture. The first step to fight this is to stop the degradation of our culture. Please consider signing the petition and writing to the local authorities of Abingdon to combat this injustice.