We believe now more than ever, that we all must agree as the voice of the majority, that it is time for the confederate flag that desecrates the city of Orangeburg be taken down.  It is a symbol of hate and division (placed in a position of great prominence no less) that we can no longer ignore.  We cannot let the misguided viewpoints of a few contaminate the sanctity of our community. 

The voice of the minority has finally been heard around the world, joined for the first time by the action of the once silent majority.  I fully understand your position as a community leader, entrusted with doing good works that are favorable and beneficial to all your constituents.

That symbol of divisiveness and hatred does not deserve to share the same breeze with the flag of our country, the flag of our state, nor anywhere near the flags that represent our armed services which themselves symbolize the protection and continuation of our great Constitution. Sadly, that confederate flag conversely embodies everything against unity and equality.  No it is not worthy.

Further, it should not occupy any boundary within our Garden City.  A city with not one, but two HBCUs to our pride.  College towns should represent forward thinking not be forced into living daily with representations of the tragedies and hatreds of the past.  It's 2020.  The Orangeburg Massacre should have been enough.  There have been too many "enoughs".  

Heritage? If true, relegate that symbol to historical texts and archived photos as a reminder of who we were.  Learn from the past. Be better.

So please consider taking up this fight once more as a giant step toward unity and begin sowing a new found hope that is invigorated and justified by the pleas of the countless and the unheard.  It is the right time.

If the citizens of South Carolina were able to remove that same flag from our State House, I feel sure this battle can be won legally as well.  There is a way to get this done.  The collective, like-minded majority cannot and should not give up.   

Whatever method or influence you can give, please do so with the knowledge that you will be on the right side of history.  It is due time to do what’s just, what’s right, and frankly, what’s morally decent for Orangeburg.

I implore your response in the form of action.  Thank you for your time.