Valdosta State University Shut Down Friday Over American Flag Protests
Well that escalated quickly.
NBC News reported:
Huge American Flag Protest Shuts Down Valdosta State University
A Georgia university shut down on Friday for a huge demonstration after a video of protesters trampling an American flag went viral.
Hordes of people descended on Valdosta State University Friday afternoon, lining the streets and waving flags. Valdosta Police Chief Brian Childress told the Valdosta Daily Times that thousands of people who “just want to come down here and support the American flag” were expected to be there.
The rally is a response to a video of students walking on a flag last Friday to protest racism, reported NBC affiliate WALB.com.
“After further discussions with local law enforcement and in the interest of the safety of our students, faculty, and staff, Valdosta State University will suspend normal business operations for Friday, April 24,” the university said in a press release on Thursday. “Only essential employees — meaning those who have been notified by their supervisor — are to report to campus.”
The event appeared to be peaceful, with some demonstrators carrying signs in support of the military and others wearing T-shirts with the American flag and the words “Try walking on this flag” emblazoned on the back.
Huge American Flag Protest Shuts Down Valdosta State University (NBC News)
Comments
I have conflicting feeling about this issue. I served 20 years for the ideals represented by this flag. I’m well aware of the need for non-violent expressions of opinion. Yet, my father and many relatives were buried under this flag as well as I intend along with my children. I’m glad I was not on scene as the other GI facing the dilemma.
Yes, it is not against the law to stomp the flag. But decent people would find a civilized way to demonstrate. Unfortunately, I would have the desire to kick one of these people myself. While it would feel good, I would hold back – in many ways to my discredit.