(ThyBlackMan.com) The 88th Festival of Lights Christmas parade went as planned in Natchitoches, LA. Controversy surrounded the parade this year as a result of Mayor Lee Posey stating the Confederate battle flag would not be allowed in the parade. As promised the Sons of Confederate Veterans were present at the parade in full Confederate flag paraphernalia.
They wore the shirts and brought their flags in support of what they feel is their heritage, and in defense of their rights. There was plenty of concern about safety for the parade. Some participants that involved children choose caution and pulled out of their parade while others prayed the peace would be maintained.
Much to the surprise of many confederate flag supporters went out of their way to be kind and full of the Christmas spirit. They spoke to
people of different races and ethnicities; it seems that they wanted people to know the flag was truly about heritage and not hatred to them. “ I don’t hate anyone; I’m just proud of my southern roots” explained one parade goer. If the flags were not present one would have never known their was an issue surrounding the event. People laughed and enjoyed the parade. Everyone cheered for all of the children involved regardless of race. Mr. Paul Jones stated “ A gentleman in a confederate flag t shirt told me Merry Christmas and shook my hand, as a black man I wouldn’t have expected that but I extended the same greeting to him”.
It was good to see everyone getting along and enjoying the festivities of the day. I respect their position of the Sons of Confederate Veterans regarding the flag however, I wish they could see past themselves. The heritage they speak of is steeped in the enslavement, and inhumane treatment of Blacks in this country. The South has a culture with a dark past that must be acknowledged and understood. Many feel that slavery is a subject that is old, tiring, over cooked and far in the past. Unfortunately, it’s a subject that has never been truthfully addressed so we have people protecting a heritage that has harmed many.
It was good to see everyone come together to celebrate the holiday season. My wish is that truth and honesty would lead to healing whereby good will towards all is not merely a Christmas theme…but a way of life.
Staff Writer; Christian Starr
May connect with this sister over at Facebook; https://www.facebook.com/christian.pierre.9809 and also Twitter; http://twitter.com/MrzZeta.