To the editor:
I had a business in downtown Pittsboro for 40 years, raised our children here and loved being a part of this diverse community. But not so much now.
When the commissioners met about the issue of removing the Confederate statue or not, I was so saddened by the show of hatred on both sides. Many of my good friends were for taking the statue down. So when I stood up I was nervous to say the least. I said I understand both sides but there are no winners. Taking the statue down will not stop racism. It will draw a line between them and us. Dividing our community, possibly forever.
I suggested a compromise. Instead of removing the statue that we put up another one honoring our black community and history, George Moses Horton, a freed slave, and Margaret Pollard, a former county commissioner. I feel this would go a long way in mending our community. It would honor all and hopefully make Pittsboro a destination again.
Putting up Rebel flags and having rallies every weekend downtown is NOT the way to work this out. Many people lost family members in the Civil War. Right or wrong, it’s a part of Southern history. I know people on both sides that would be willing to contribute to a monument honoring our black history.
Now protesters are fighting protesters. Police are diverting traffic from downtown. What’s that costing the taxpayers?
It’s gone TOO far!
All the protesters should be removed from downtown and moved to the Sheriff’s Dept., where everyone will be safe. Businesses are having to close on Saturdays because of the hatred and nonsense. People are not coming to shop here because they are afraid.
Our community is fractured and it’s not going to get better. It takes all of us working together to fix this. It CANNOT work if you think it’s YOUR WAY or NO WAY.
I urge everyone to consider a compromise that will end this show of hate and hurt feelings. I know there is a better way. Let’s move forward together and become the community I remember and love!
Pam Smith
Pittsboro