On Tuesday, March 22nd, Vice-Mayor Wes Bellamy and other supporters plan on making a formal proposal for the City of Charlottesville to remove the statue of General R.E. Lee from Lee Park. Mr. Bellamy cites his experience with several individuals who feel negatively toward the statue. "I've spoken with different people who have said they have refused to step foot in to that park because of what that statue and the name of that park represents. And we can't have that in the city of Charlottesville," he says.  Rather than tear down Lee's statue, this petition serves as a proposal to keep it and add a statue of another leader of modern times, the late Julian Bond. Bond was an honored professor at the University of Virginia for over 20 years and member of the Charlottesville community. He impacted our area and our nation in many ways and his recent passing in 2015 makes this decision both timely and appropriate. A memorial for Mr. Bond would serve as a unique contrast to whatever legacy General Lee left on racial tensions. For many, Lee is not a symbol of racism or oppression, but it is understandable that his memory may be viewed that way. Similarly, some may not support all of the aspects of Mr. Bond's legacy, as he was outspoken on an array of issues, but his work toward the advancement of civil rights is commendable. By converting Lee Park into Lee-Bond Park, or creating some other alternative, the City could send a clear message that history is not to be forgotten, but progress is to be celebrated. Please take this into consideration over the next few weeks when discussing any plans or proposals for Lee Park. This option may prove to be more cost effective, while unifying the community rather than dividing it. We cannot erase history, but we can memorialize how far we've come. Let's erect a sharp contrast, rather than tear down our past.