Buddy Owens: Educate the hate

Regarding the May 7 news article “Group protests Gettysburg photo”: When the “darkside” controls the minds of adults, it is dangerous for our children to play pretend with history.

Ancient Egyptians defaced images and destroyed the written history of unfavored Pharaohs. The new religions keep destroying the imagery of the old religions. These narrow-minded, self-centered actions serve to limit our knowledge of our past, which, as a result, is riddled with question marks.

The past is also remembered in games of our youth – “Cowboys and Indians,” “War” with the United States always being the “good guys.” Should Civil War games only have the Union side portrayed?

Superstition-like fear of symbols such as the ancient Hindu and Native American “swastika” produces a harsh display of emotions and silliness when it is displayed. Could the understanding of this symbol’s complete history neutralize its fear-filled effect?

During a past visit to Washington by the British Royals, the local authorities had some residents remove their supportive British “Union Jack” flags because crowds were gathering in protest to the display of “that rebel flag.” How embarrassing!

Criminalizing a symbol used by a hate group does not eliminate the hate. That takes education. Confront the hate, not the children.

This story was originally published May 8, 2015 at 5:53 PM with the headline "Buddy Owens: Educate the hate."