Rename

The movement continues to take down statues and monuments that are deemed offensive to some and to rename some institutions such as schools. First, let me assure you that there are people that are genuinely offended. But, history can’t be changed and hiding it a corner is dangerous.

We live near Tyler, Texas and right now they are trying to get enough money and support to rename two high schools - Robert E. Lee High and John Tyler High. And, as usual I have an opinion, although I don’t live in Tyler.

Both schools have been around for a lot of years, but names are changed for numerous reasons, not just offensive reasons. Obviously, Lee was an officer in the Confederate army and reportedly owned slaves. Truth is that from history one can learn that he actually was against slavery. John Tyler, the 10^th President, also owned slaves. He was instrumental in getting Texas to become a state in 1845.

It would make sense that if a high school must be renamed, then why not the name of the city? Are those that are offended not just as offended by the name, where ever it would be? To follow that thinking, we would have to change a lot of names - like Washington, D.C. and the state. George owned slaves.

My perspective is that slavery is wrong, but it is a part of our history. A part to be remembered because of how mistreatment has been overcome. From my point of view, the issue should be one of victory and a determination that these things will never happen again.

Changing names changes nothing.

Changing people does.

PMO
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