Growing up near Chattanooga, I’ve always hated the statue of Confederate General Alexander P. Stewart outside the courthouse. To me, it represents a painful and divided part of our history. I don’t believe Confederate leaders should be honored with statues on public property, especially outside a place that is supposed to represent justice.

Instead, why not honor someone who represents Chattanooga in a positive way?

Leslie Jordan was born and raised in Chattanooga and went on to bring laughter and joy to millions of people. He represented acceptance, kindness, humor, and being yourself. Those are values worth celebrating.

Replacing Stewart’s statue with Leslie Jordan wouldn’t erase history. It would simply change who we choose to honor today. We can learn about the Confederacy without putting its leaders on pedestals.

Let’s replace a symbol of Chattanooga’s divided past with someone who brought people together.

Sign this petition to replace the statue of General Alexander P. Stewart at the Chattanooga courthouse with a statue honoring Chattanooga’s own Leslie Jordan.