First, I must say I believe everyone has a right of freedom of speech and a right to assemble.
Second, no one group has the right to say they speak for the Town of New Gloucester. You can speak
for yourself or for the group if given the responsibility to do so from its members. No one or group has the right to hand a document to or verbally tell an individual or group they are not welcome. This is not acceptable!
Third, the actions of a group of New Gloucester Citizens at the Memorial Day and the news reports that followed rest heavy on my heart and in my thoughts. Memorial Day is a day to remember those brave soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice for this country. Their deaths had an impact on families, friends, and strangers. While some may argue that the Confederate soldier was not fighting for this country, their truth may be different. Some soldiers fought based on their belief, often they fought based on their demographic location, a sense of duty or alongside families and neighbors without truly understanding what the fight was about. This truth still rings true today.
Fourth, I understand that the Confederate flag brings about strong feelings, let us talk about them. The flags of the Confederate States of America have a history of three successive designs during the
American Civil War. The flags were known as “Stars and Bars”, used from 1861-1863; the “Stainless Banner”, used from 1863-1865; and the “Blood-Stained Banner”, used in 1865 shortly before the Confederacy’s dissolution. While these flags were utilized by the Confederate soldier the flag most often associated with the Confederacy is The Second Confederate Navy Jack.
Perception is everything: some defend the flag as their symbol of service, sacrifice and heritage some
see it as a symbol of terror, oppression, and terror. Does one side have to be wrong for the other to be right? If you find someone with a differing opinion, do you shut them out or do you have a conversation to understand each other’s opinion?
I am lucky enough to live in the United States of America where I can have a conversation with my
neighbor, co-workers, friends, family, and strangers without fear of imprisonment, do you know why? It is because of the sacrifice of so many, the American Soldier.
I am also proud to say that my family has fought for our rights dating back to the American Revolution. Including fighting on both sides during the American Civil War. After much reflection I will close with these words.
I am a United States citizen who chooses to live in New Gloucester, Maine. I am thankful, supportive, and humbled by all who have sacrificed so much which allows us to live with freedoms. I support all Veterans, thank you for your service, and God bless.
*This is a guest post by Linda Chase. The New Gloucester GOP supports the right of individuals to submit guest blog posts freely, and without censorship. If you are interested in sharing an article, or post please send all submissions to newgloucestergop@gmail.com
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