This editorial reiterates the concerns that have  been raised, assures readers that the removal of the Confederate flag is not grounded in trying to deny freedom of speech but about not imposing a symbol of hatred on a public event, and discusses the history that has allowed the Confederate flag to be a symbol of white supremacy, hatred, and racism.

This issue is not political; it is about Ebensburg welcoming and parading ties of hate speech to its residents. 

The council will hold a town hall meeting at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday in the municipal building’s community room at 300 W. High St. Please wear a mask and dress in black to show support that hate has no place in Ebensburg.