The Power of Symbols

Make no mistake, symbols do have impact. Take the American flag. To many, it represents the ideals of all that we wish our country to represent. Another flag has been very much in the news lately: the Confederate Flag. This symbol, more than any other, represents the ideals for what the Confederate States of America fought, including slavery and the desire of Southern states to formally break away from the United States to form their own nation. These two issues primarily drove the Civil War. Even though this costly conflict occurred over 150 years ago, a number of citizens as well as state legislative bodies and governors continue to honor this symbol. This public display of affection seems to finally be coming to an end.


In the aftermath of the terrible multiple killings that happened recently at the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina, the focus of the nation is on the Confederate flag. Specifically, in response to public pressure from citizens and leaders throughout the US, a handful of southern states, including South Carolina and Mississippi, that have continued to prominently display the flag are now taking steps to reverse their actions. This is a very good thing. While the Confederate flag has historic value, what it represents runs counter to the ideals of the nation against which confederate sympathizers and supporters actually rebelled.


Of course, steps a number of southern states are in the process of taking will not also eliminate racism and/or feelings of intolerance some still have. Symbols, by definition, represent beliefs that are not necessarily visible, yet are perpetuated by actions or behavior. Such negative attitudes can and, sadly, will in all likelihood continue. But by no longer giving a powerful symbol such as the Confederate flag such validation, those still harboring such negative feelings will possibility feel less empowered to do so and maybe even begin reassessing their own attitude when it comes to others of different persuasion. Symbols are powerful communication of tools. If used correctly, they can make a positive difference.