Boucher: A Time for Healing [Ridgefield Press]

Op-Ed as it appeared in the Ridgefield Press

State Senator Toni Boucher released the following statement today regarding the South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley set to sign a law taking down the confederate flag. The legislation calls for the flag to be taken down within 24 hours of her signing of the bill and moved to the state’s Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum for display.

“This is a great day for the people of South Carolina. Out of a horrific tragedy where good decent people including a colleague from their state senate were mercilessly gunned down, comes purpose and a time for healing.

“Some years ago, I had visited South Carolina’s capitol and saw that although the flag was not at the top of the capitol, it was nonetheless flown prominently in front of the capitol building. This prompted some driving by to stop and make angry remarks about it being placed there. I felt it was wrong then and is wrong now. This symbol reminds many of a painful war and a time in our country when slavery was accepted and civil rights were suppressed.

“As for those who made the argument that the confederate flag was part of their history- a part of Southern culture – it could easily have been put in a glass case with other Civil War items rather than elevating its importance by waving it in the wind – front and center for all to see. This constant opening of the raw wound had become a daily reminder of the hurt and the injustice felt by nearly all Americans. Good for Governor Nikki Haley and the South Carolina legislature for taking a strong stance and immediate action.”

Boucher’s district includes Ridgefield.