Dr. Michael J. O’Connell, Healthcare Consultant, Barrington, New Hampshire, commented that in the wake of the tragic Charleston shootings a few months ago, Confederate flags that dotted the south have mostly come down. My first reaction, I assume consistent with that of the majority of Americans, was one of surprise that the flag was still commonplace, and even in public arenas. As Obama said in his eulogy, the flag, among other things, is a symbol of a failed government, one based on the institution of slavery. Why retain the symbol, some 150 years after the regime’s demise? The answer to this must be very complex as to elude the comprehension of most Americans. See: https://michaeloconnellmdnh.wordpress.com/2015/09/24/confederate-flag/

1. Confederate flag…
Dr. Michael J. O’Connell, Healthcare Consultant, Barrington, New Hampshire commented that
in the wake of the tragic Charleston shootings a few months ago, Confederate flags that dotted
the south have mostly come down. My first reaction, I assume consistent with that of the
majority of Americans, was one of surprise that the flag was still commonplace, and even in
public arenas. As Obama said in his eulogy, the flag, among other things, is a symbol of a failed
government, one based on the institution of slavery. Why retain the symbol, some 150 years
after the regime's demise? The answer to this must be very complex as to elude the
comprehension of most Americans.
Unfortunately, removal of the flag may do little to expunge whatever deep seated sentiments
have promoted its endurance. I suspect these sentiments involve notions that blacks continue to
lag behind in experiencing the rewards of our great society, despite affirmative action, equal
opportunity, and burgeoning welfare state. I suspect the fact that violent crime is much more
common among the black population than any other groups contributes significantly to these
sentiments.
Finally, the south and more than a few entities in the north, have removed a symbol of repression
and hatred. Good riddance. I hope the Confederate flag is gone for good. The animosity behind
that flag will not so easily retreat, however, and that is apparently an enduring problem. Until
the black race is seen as working hard to better itself without over-dependence on handouts, such
sentiments will remain. As the prominent black figure Thomas Sowell has said “self-respect can
seldom be gotten from even a successful playing of a parasitic role in the name of a make believe
equality.”