Is Oregon the Alabama of the west? It would appear so to me with the regularity that I am affronted with the "Stars 'N Bars," or, as those not raised in the south might know it, as the Confederate flag. How did a symbol exclusive to America's Southeast make its way here to the Northwest? This flag is no doubt a symbol of oppression to those of African descent in this country. After all, it was flown by the Confederate Army in efforts to keep the miseries of slavery alive during the civil war. The flag is still flown today, as an official flag of the Ku Klux Klan. With this—and the fact that Portland is the "Whitest City in America"—this banner takes on a more ominous role in this city in present times. Time and time again I see the flag displayed at homes. But more often, I see it waving with a trail of exhaust, in truck beds. Sometimes, ironically, next to the American flag. My real question though is Klansmen racism returning to Oregon? Did it ever leave?
Joe Allred, Southeast Portland
Note from KBJ: You must have a point, Joe. What is it?
