NASCAR is the latest outfit to virtue signal by banning the Confederate flag from its facilities. The car race company is saying the flag is not welcoming, which is true. At least to many.

 

However, the Confederate flag is part of history and outlawing it would violate freedom of expression and thought.

 

However, the Nazi flag is a symbol of hate and displaying it can get you federally charged in some situations.

 

So this is one complicated and emotional issue.

 

Here’s how I see it. Southern tradition honors its Civil War dead and some Confederate leaders like Robert E. Lee. But even the General is under fire, pardon the pun. You do not see civilian leaders like Jefferson Davis lionized much so this is about bravery in battle down in Dixie.

 

The problem is the Civil War was fought to enable slavery as well as state’s rights - as I write in my book Killing Lincoln.

 

So most African Americans believe a positive context for the Confederate flag is impossible. And because of the grave damage done to them by slavery, I agree that symbols attached to it - are not a positive in public forums.

 

Fair? I think so.

 

Much more analysis tonight on the No Spin News. See you beginning at 6 eastern.