Hey, about hate speech and being PC, etc...
People like to have it both ways...
It is not okay for others to make a statement (verbal or otherwise) which is prejudiced against another type of people.
But, it is okay for that person to use negative and prejudiced terms against another type of people.
I understand the OP's concerns about the Confederate Battle Flag.
But, they have to understand that they are going to lose a lot of people when the do the same thing that they don't think others should do.
And, about the Confederate flag.
It stands for one thing, and one thing only.
The South's battle to try to defend and maintain their right to practice slavery.
Anyone who is missing that is missing the one major and key point.
It does not matter to me, at all, that there there may be a few unwitting and misguided young people who think they see a different meaning.
I can try to say that a Swastika represents peace and love and unity.
But, in reality, I would look at anyone who were to think that way and want just to roll my eyes... (if not try very hard not to laugh!!!)
In the end, unless something is regarded as true Hate Speech, then hey, it is fair game.
Like the old quote says. (something like this...)
I might not agree with what you have to say...
But, I would defend, to my death, your right to say it.
As far as this flag being flown on government properties.
I agree that this has been changed.
I really don't think the Confederate flag, or the Gay/Lesbian flag, or the Christian flag, swastika, or any other flag that represents an ideal held by only a fraction of the citizens (and specifically excludes other citizens) should be displayed by our Government.
I would rather see 1000 huge Confederate flags going down the road on poles attached to pick-up trucks, than one Confederate flag being flown in front of, or from the top of, my Government buildings.