I have always been opposed to naming public edifices or venues for people. The hero of today may not stand up to the scrutiny of history. I know I cringe, as one after another name gets discarded, even though it is a worthy move to correct false ideals and causes, that seen in today’s climate of equality for all, need correcting.
I know we have been guilty of naming things after whomever we want to honor, but maybe another path might be more prudent. I remember my mother-in-law told me that High Street in Harrisonburg was once named German Street, until we went to war with them.
I still think about the day I sat on the front porch of Monticello with my middle school grandson. When our guide started talking about Jefferson and his contributions to country, and we all agree there were great things he did, my grandson held up his hand and said, “ But don’t you think it was a bit hypocritical to declare liberty and justice for all while owning slaves?
The guide then opened up about that part of Jefferson’s life and how that would be a part of the tour information. About time. I don’t think less of our forebears who lived in the culture of the time. I am a product of segregation and took it as a normal way of life. I spent four years at Madison College without a person of color either in the student population or in the faculty. I know that was a wrong privilege of my “whiteness” assuring a elevated place in society.
As Dr. Phil often says, “ When you know better, you do better.” That is my prayer for me and for you in this brave new world.
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