Navigating the Controversy: My Experience with “Confederate Principles” at a Family Festival
Attending a local blueberry festival in Maryland on Father’s Day, my family and I anticipated nothing more than a day filled with bluegrass music, fresh fruit, and wholesome fun. The atmosphere was idyllic—children played on hay bales, families picked berries, and the air was filled with the sound of a talented band. But the tone shifted dramatically when the lead musician, a bearded, grey-haired man, announced, “I am a confederate. My grandfather was a confederate. I believe in confederate principles.”
Suddenly, the festival’s warmth was replaced by discomfort. My husband and I exchanged uneasy glances. While the crowd responded with raised hands when asked about visiting Gettysburg, we remained silent, unsure how to process the musician’s statement. As he launched into a song “celebrating rebel soldiers,” we quietly decided it was time to leave.
Understanding “Confederate Principles”: A Closer Look
Back home, I couldn’t shake the encounter. What exactly did he mean by “confederate principles”? A quick search revealed that these principles, rooted in the Confederate States of America (1861–1865), often reference states’ rights, limited federal government, and, most controversially, the protection of slavery and property rights. Today, these ideas are highly divisive, with Confederate symbols widely recognized as representing racism and white supremacy.
Why Symbols and Words Matter: The Power of Perception
Our reactions to symbols like the Confederate flag and support for confederate principles are shaped by education and lived experience. For many Black Americans, the Confederate flag is as painful as a Nazi flag would be to a Jewish person. Confederate principles would include protection of slavery and slaves as property. Even if some claim “heritage, not hate,” it’s crucial to recognize the harm these symbols and words perpetuate. As Tom Petty famously acknowledged in a Rolling Stone interview, using the Confederate flag was “downright stupid”—a sentiment echoed by many artists who have since apologized for similar choices.
The Complexity of Southern Pride
The debate over “Southern pride” versus hate is nuanced. Some argue that displaying Confederate symbols or subscribing to confederate principles is about regional identity, not racism. However, history shows that the Confederacy fought to preserve slavery, and today, the confederacy is inseparable from that legacy. While some may have grown up believing the flag represented rebellion or home, increased awareness and education have shifted public understanding. Continuing to use these symbols and subscribing to confederate principles today, despite their well-documented history, is at best willful ignorance.
I really want to understand this statement and process my reaction to it. When I get home, I convey the communication to other family members who were with me at the festival but off picking blueberries. One reaction was, “I don’t think it was a political statement. He could be just celebrating his southern heritage and introducing the song. Why didn’t you ask him privately what he meant by that?”
Constructive Ways to Address the Controversy
Navigating conversations about Confederate symbols and principles can be challenging, but it’s essential for fostering understanding and change. Here are some constructive approaches:
Educate Yourself and Others
Understand the History: The Confederate flag and similar symbols are deeply rooted in the history of the American South, the Civil War, and, most importantly, the defense of slavery. While some claim it represents “heritage,” the historical record is clear: the Confederacy was founded to uphold slavery, and the flag has long been co-opted by hate groups
Acknowledge Evolving Meanings: Over time, the flag’s meaning has shifted. What some saw as “rebellion” or “Southern pride” decades ago is now widely recognized as a symbol of racism and white supremacy, thanks to the efforts of Black activists and historians.
Share Reputable Resources: Recommend books, documentaries, and articles that provide balanced, factual perspectives (e.g., “Stamped from the Beginning” by Ibram X. Kendi, “13th” on Netflix).
Engage in Thoughtful, Respectful Dialogue
Listen First: If someone expresses support for the flag or “Confederate principles,” ask open-ended questions to understand their perspective. For example: “What does that symbol mean to you?” or “How did you come to feel that way?”
Share Your Perspective Calmly: Explain how the symbol is perceived by others, especially marginalized groups. Use analogies if helpful (e.g., “For many Black Americans, the Confederate flag is as painful as a Nazi flag is to Jewish people.”)
Avoid Public Shaming: If possible, have these conversations privately. Public confrontations can make people defensive and less open to change.
Promote Empathy and Critical Thinking
Acknowledge Complexities: Recognize that some people were raised with different narratives about these symbols. Education, upbringing, and local culture play a big role in shaping beliefs.
Encourage Self-Reflection: Invite others (and yourself) to question inherited beliefs: “Why do I feel attached to this symbol? What does it really represent? Am I open to learning more?”
4. Model Positive Change
Reject Harmful Symbols: Make a conscious choice not to display or support Confederate symbols. If you see them in public spaces, consider politely asking organizers or businesses to reconsider their use.
Support Inclusive Alternatives: Celebrate Southern culture in ways that don’t rely on divisive imagery—music, food, literature, and art that honor the region’s diversity and resilience.
Promote Apologies and Growth: When artists or public figures acknowledge past mistakes (like Tom Petty did regarding the Confederate flag), share and support those statements as examples of growth and accountability.
5. Advocate for Better Education
Push for Accurate History: Support schools and organizations that teach the full, unvarnished history of the Civil War and the Confederacy.
Encourage Diversity Training: Recommend or participate in workshops that foster understanding of race, history, and cultural symbols.
6. Use Your Influence and Dollars Wisely
Use your purchasing power to promote brands that celebrate diversity and reject hate.
Final Thoughts
My experience at the festival was a powerful reminder that symbols and words matter. They carry the weight of history, pain, and ongoing injustice. Addressing them responsibly means being informed, empathetic, and proactive. While it can be uncomfortable to confront controversial topics, it’s necessary for progress. By educating ourselves, engaging in open dialogue, and making conscious choices, we can help move our community-and the conversation—forward.
If you’re interested in learning more about the history of Confederate symbols or want to support anti-racism initiatives, check out the recommended resources below. Together, we can move beyond the past and build a better tomorrow.
Why This Approach Works
Bridges Divides: Empathy and education open doors to real change, rather than deepening divides.
Encourages Accountability: By supporting apologies and growth, you help create a culture where learning from mistakes is celebrated.
Promotes Sustainable Change: Real, lasting change happens when people understand why a symbol is harmful—not just because they’re pressured to conform.
Recommended Resources:
Stamped from the Beginning – Ibram X. Kendi
13th – Netflix Documentary
