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Confederate flag causing controversy in Brunswick

By Larry Spruill
By Larry Spruill

BRUNSWICK, Ga. — The Confederate flag is not only causing controversy in South Carolina but here at home as well.

Several citizens are asking the Sons of Confederate Veterans to not march in this year’s Christmas parade in Brunswick.

Shymekia Lampkin says she sees Confederate flags every time she walks out her door. “It's disturbing. That's very disturbing," said Lampkin.

Not because of the flag itself, but because of what she says it stands for. The Confederate flag has been a topic of controversy for some time now, especially during Christmas when members of the Sons of Confederate Veterans walk in the annual city parade with what some say is a racist display. “This is a symbol and a sign of a lot of pain and a lot of anger,” said Pastor Ken Adkins.

That’s why Adkins wrote a letter to several city officials, demanding the flags be taken down across Brunswick, especially during this year’s Christmas parade. “I think really it's now time to have a discussion here in Glynn County, here in Brunswick,” said Adkins.

“If it offends people, that saddens me and my inclination would be to say it should not be used or displayed where it offends people,” said Jeff Kilgore.

But Jeff Kilgore says despite the controversy, the flag is more than just a piece of fabric, it’s history. “The flag has become controversial unfortunately and has been appropriated by hate groups and has been used inappropriately,” said Kilgore.

“Why didn't you make the people who were using your flag as a symbol of hate and racism, why didn't you all who said it’s my heritage, it's my history, say something then?” said Adkins.

Action News Jax reached out to the Sons of Confederate Veterans of Georgia; they told us the head commander will get in contact with us.

We also reached out to the Downtown Development Department Commission; they directed us to the city. The mayor hasn’t returned our calls.

WJAX

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