Thank you, Durango Herald, for taking a brave stand and deciding to promote the Betsy Ross flag on your editorial page as a symbol of unity. Other groups may be warping its original meaning to promote hatred, divisiveness and racism, but don’t let that stop you from reclaiming its original meaning. Good for you.
While you are at it, please help reclaim some other symbols that have been misinterpreted. The swastika originally conveyed prosperity and good fortune. The Confederate flag fostered tradition, heritage and pride. Extending the middle finger was a way for first-century Mediterraneans to ward off the evil eye.
It would be great if you could rotate all three images on the editorial page. Better yet, combine all into a Herald mascot for the 1A banner: A smiling hunchback (which, historically, brought good luck) who waves a Confederate flag, wears a swastika on his shirt and proudly extends his middle finger to readers. What better way to promote heritage, unity and at the same time, ward off evil spirits?
Keep up the good work.
Tom Sluis
Durango
