by Sarah Arzberger
After reading these articles, I start to remember seeing on the news of people rioting and trying to tear down monuments and statues of people who have made an impact on history. As being a history nerd I start to feel angry and was frustrated. I didn’t truly understand why anyone would want to do such a thing. But after doing research I can see why they would want these statues tourn down. Yes, they are somewhat important to American history but that doesn’t justify having these figures commemorated in public.
Confederate leaders should not be made into public figures. People like Rev Dr. Martin Luther King jr, Rosa Parks, Sacagawea, Lewis, and William Clark are great examples of people who should be celebrated for literally making a huge impact on the world and changing society. One thing besides the statues that really stuck with me is how buildings and schools are named after these people. Yes, it’s just a name but would you want to go to a school named after someone who was responsible for the destruction and the harm of others? I find it really amazing that people are using their voice and with the help of social media to speak their minds. People back then were not able to voice there opinion on these statues but we live in a different time now. For once we have people defending themselves and sticking up for what they believe in not taking no for an answer. One thing that I can take away from all of this is the diligence, dedication, and drive that these people have. I bet that if these statues were still up they would still be there until they came down.
On the other hand, one thing that I cant stand behind is the aftermath of it all. I look at the photos of the so-called artwork of the areas that the statues were once at and its full of graffiti. Im all for Black Lives matter and taking down the statues but I don’t think foul language or colorful spray paints justify a point. Yes, let’s take down these monsters but there is no need to tag it up after. We are taking it down so we don’t have to look at these people daily, but in its place is just graffiti?
