Symbol of suffering not for license plates

When it comes to license plates, some are stylish while others are rather simple. Now, they may become controversial. Rep. Don Brown, R-DeFuniak Springs, wants Florida license plates to pay homage to the Confederacy.

That’s right, coming soon Floridians may see Confederate flags on their license plates. While Brown feels strongly about this, others disagree just as much.

When the Confederate flag is discussed, the majority of blacks feel the same way: they associate it with the harsh brutalities blacks had to face.

There is no doubt this issue will stir up controversy and perhaps even a great debate.

“It’s a part of our history, whether we like it or not,” Brown told the Tallahassee Democrat. “I appreciate the heritage and the good things that people feel about our past.”

Sen. Al Lawson on the other hand does not agree.

“I would not let the bill go through with that on it, if it comes over from the House,” Lawson said in an interview with the Democrat. “I’m really surprised Rep. Brown would even consider doing it. It doesn’t make sense to create this kind of divisiveness in the legislative session.”

Most blacks may side with Lawson. After all, the Confederate flag isn’t exactly a beacon of hope.

The Confederate flag should not be emblazoned on license plates. Instead it should remain in history books where it belongs.

Jay Christie for the Editorial Board.