The two Confederate statues in Oxford, MS (on county courthouse property on the square and university property in the circle) have long been sources of cultural and racial division in our town. With the current events in our country, it is time we make change happen in our community and make a statement that we want to unite the LOU community as one who values everyone's lives equally. In order to do this, we must take concrete actions to show the Black community that we see them, we hear them, and we stand with them. By removing these statues, I believe that it will be a significant first step in the right direction. 

The Civil War was a significant event in our country's history, and no one is debating that. I believe there is a better way to remember those lives lost and why the war was fought in the first place (not to mention, the Confederacy lost the war). The enslavement of Black people in our state and the country was a horrific time, and the continued racism that exists still today has no place in our town. Many people see the Confederate statues as a symbol that celebrates slavery, racism, and white supremacy. This is not our "heritage." This is blatant disregard for the lives of people who matter in our community. 

The University is already moving the statue on the circle; will you join them and countless others in the fight to end racism? #Blacklivesmatter