Elizabeth A. Lee’s June 28 letter “Flag too visible as symbol of hate” ended stating, “The presence of the Confederate flag, however rationalized, is a form of hate speech and should not be tolerated.” Although Lee doesn’t specifically say it, she and those on the far left of the political spectrum seem to want the Confederate flag banned altogether because they believe that the flag is offensive and represents hate.
There are a number of problems with this argument. First of all, an outright ban would violate the First Amendment.
Second, a ban would create a slippery slope that even the far left doesn’t see. If we start being able to ban flags because they offend people, then perhaps those on the far right will want to start banning the rainbow flag. To many in the religious community, that flag is offensive and represents a sinful lifestyle with which they don’t agree. If they oppose that lifestyle and are attacked, then that rainbow flag could be viewed as a flag of oppression.
Whether we agree with each other’s points of view or not, the First Amendment makes sure that we are free to express it, especially if it is on private property.
