THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1997, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Sunday, January 26, 1997 TAG: 9701240017
SECTION: COMMENTARY PAGE: J4 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: 30 lines
On Jan. 20, the nation celebrated the memory of Martin Luther King Jr., a man who fought for justice, equality and human dignity. Sad to say, the state of Virginia also chose this day to mark the memory of Confederate generals who fought to preserve slavery.
Being a Yankee, I am not well-versed in the origins of Lee-Jackson day. If this day of Southern remembrance existed prior to the establishment of Martin Luther King Day, it is a fact of no consequence.
It has been recorded in some history books that Generals Lee and Jackson were men who demonstrated courage in the face of battle, and they most likely possessed other traits that can be considered honorable. But let us not forget for one moment that these men were fighting for a cause that was morally repugnant. Their actions stand in stark contrast to Martin Luther King's efforts to ``build a tent'' under which all men could enjoy life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, free from racial bigotry and prejudice.
The Virginia General Assembly and Governor Allen continue to choose to detract from the celebration of Martin Luther King's memory by associating his day with memories of racial persecution, oppression and division. Hopefully, they will put an end to celebrating this horrible and oppressive chapter of Virginia's past.
JAMES D. OAKES
Norfolk, Jan. 21, 1997