
By Michael Pope
In Virginia, old wounds are being reopened by a gubernatorial proclamation. Earlier this month, Republican Governor Bob McDonnell issued a proclamation designating April as Confederate History Month – a designation that the commonwealth’s last two governors have avoided.
McDonnell’s proclamation says it’s important for all Virginians to reflect upon our Commonwealth’s shared history, although the word slavery does not appear in the text of the document.
An NAACP spokesman responded by saying it’s unfortunate that McDonnell is trying to return Virginia to the days of slavery and Jim Crow.
The controversy comes at a significant time for Virginia, which will mark the 150th anniversary of the Civil War next year.

Help keep the conversation civil. Please refer to our Terms of Use and Code of Conduct before posting your comments.