'We need to learn from the good and the bad in our past'
Wendy Heuer
2008-05-06 10:25:10
Mrs. Randall, I am sorry that you need to interject race into this request for funding by the United Daughters of the Confederacy to rededicate the Silent Sentinel ["Please don't celebrate confederacy on my dime," Times-Mirror, April 30]. Why does everything have to be about race these days? By making it about race, you are limiting our view of history.
Many in our society would choose to overlook parts of our history, act as though it never existed. Opportunities like this rededication give us a chance to learn and reflect on our history here in Loudoun. Ignoring it does not change the facts. I would think that all Americans would want to know, teach and be taught the truth. This is how we prevent history from repeating itself. We need to learn from the good and the bad in our past.
I take issue with the implications you made about the UDC after you visited its Web site. I know several members of the UDC and they are no threat to our society. They are not racist and they do not celebrate slavery. They certainly do not want to bring back slavery. I think your assessment is incredibly unfair and extremely inaccurate. You should consider a retraction and apology.
It has become clear that the ladies of the UDC no longer need money from the county. Apparently enough support has come to them through private donation, resulting from the Board of Supervisors being unable to do the right thing. That, Mrs. Randall, should tell you how Loudouners want their tax dollar spent.
Wendy Heuer
Purcellville