Quote:
Originally Posted by ASTalumna06
Actually, I think this is a terrible analogy.
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I see where both of you are coming from.
However, unlike SydneyK, I would not use the KKK as an illustration of the negatives associated with the "cross." Christianity, and Christian symbols such as the cross, has represented the "religious arm of power," European-white diasporic dominance, colonialism, missionaries, slavery, the push to civilize the unGodly savages, racism, sexism, homosexism, rape, and overall social exclusion. Religion, specifically Christianity in this instance, has been used to perpetuate social inequalities around the world and keep oppressed populations compliant. Since we're thinking about the history behind symbols, and telling people that they cannot rightfully respect symbols that have an oppressive history and offend masses of people, there are people around the world who cringe when they see Christian symbols including the cross.
For instance, the Black Church and the role of Christianity in Black oppression and assimilation has always been criticized by people of African Diaspora around the world who believe that Christianity was forced on the African Diaspora; and a "white Jesus and His cross" should not be worshipped.
Is there a substantive difference when we look at national/international history regarding this or only a difference in what people personally believe in (since Christianity is the world's largest religion)? If it is the latter then that defense of personal beliefs and the positive despite the negative are why people justify respecting and displaying the Confederate Flag.