Confederate monuments and statues a symbol of heritage, not hate

Dear Editor,

I am writing to you to voice my opinion concerning the confederate statues. I think they should be left alone because they are a part of our country's history and an important part of our heritage. The confederate statues should also be left alone because they do not represent hatred and racism, they represent this country's history and how this country came to become one country. For instance, at a time when people are battling over whether to take down Confederate War statues and memorials, a pair of state lawmakers in South Carolina want to put one up. It wouldn't be just another Civil War monument, It would be a monument to honor the sacrifices of black Confederate troops from South Carolina. If this one gets to be put up, then that's another reason for all of the other ones to stay up.

Thanks,

Shane Wise

7th Grader

Carolina Springs Middle School

Boy Scout: Troop 518