My letter to the director of the museum.

Art for art’s sake is one thing. To use it to appease some and inflame the feelings of others is another. The current display of Sims’ work at the museum is not only inflammatory but offensive to many of Southern roots. The use of the Confederate Battle Flag in anything other than a respectful manners goes against everything that is preached today about diversity and understanding. The truth is, these methods are a pretty well orchestrated attempt to teach lies, keep distrust and old ugly emotions alive. The resolution may come only after the honest teaching of the meaning and use of the Battle Flag in our inadequate school systems is done.
The current display of the Battle Flag denotes its use by those who were not connected to the honor it earned. They also use the Nazi symbols and the largest flag they use is that of the United States of America. Courts have agreed that this rabble has the right by constitution to gather and use their free speech. The courts have established the rights of Black Americans to voice their opinion on everything and we are supposed to listen. The one thing the courts have not taken into consideration is the right of the descendants of those who fought for the Confederate States of America. Again, teaching in the schools is to blame for ignorance.
There is no state or business that should apologize for slavery. It has existed since the beginning of time. It was wrong then. Tell that to God. The states in the Union practiced it long after arms were laid down at Appomattox.
A museum that wishes to promote dialogue should at the very least give time and space to another view. One sided dialogue is not dialogue, it is posturing to a group with an agenda that will not sit down to speak civilly with another of opposing views.
As a descendant of Florida Pioneers, it pains me to see this happen in my state. I know it would bother them. As the descendant of many who fought for the Southern Army, I am offended that the truth of their lives lies buried in places like Ft Delaware, Point Lookout and Elmira. There are two sides to every story. Sadly it is not PC to tell one of them. Any official, in any museum or holds public office that will not stand up and be counted as fair minded isn’t worth their pay.

Pam Watts
Pensacola, Florida