Human Rights

Why These People Burned The Confederate Flag

An artist in Detroit is setting fire to one of America's most contentious symbols.

Why These People Burned The Confederate Flag
WXYZ
SMS

This is a "funeral" for Confederate flags. 

While part of the purpose was to destroy a symbol many see as hateful, the ceremony was more than that. 

The artist behind the burning at a Detroit art museum said he wanted to fight back against political ideals associated with the Confederate flag.

Confederate Monuments In Alabama Are Here To Stay
Confederate Monuments In Alabama Are Here To Stay

Confederate Monuments In Alabama Are Here To Stay

Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey signed a bill banning the removal or relocation of monuments that have been standing for over 40 years.

LEARN MORE

"If you're an artist and you're not talking about what's happening, then you're not really doing what your call is," attendee Sabrina Nelson said. 

This burning comes at a time when several communities in the U.S. are asking whether Confederate flags or statues should stay in their cities. 

New Orleans decided it would remove several Confederate statues, despite some pushback from people living there. 

Baltimore is now having a conversation about what to do with monuments there — although the removal process is costly. 

Some view items from the Confederacy as an important part of history and disagree with removing them. Others say the statues and flags represent racism and hate.

What role do you think art plays in societal conversations?