49 flags are flying

[central scrutinizer]

The USA Track and Field Championships are taking place here in Eugene, Oregon. One state flag is missing:

http://registerguard.com/rg/sports/33240415-81/mississippis-erica-bougard-third-after-first-day-of-heptathlon-at-usa-track--field-championships.html.csp

Erica Bougard isn’t into politics.

The former Mississippi State star’s focus is competing in the heptathlon at the highest level.

So after winning three of the first four disciplines in the two-day, seven-event competition at the USA Outdoor Track & Field Championships, the 22-year-old from Byhalia, Miss., didn’t have too much to say when asked about the absence of the Mississippi flag at Hayward Field.

There were 49 state flags swaying in the warm breeze on the south end of Oregon’s historic venue on Saturday. Mississippi’s flag, which includes the Confederate stars and bars, is not flying.

[MineralMan]

1. I wonder whose decision that was.

While I deplore the use of the stars and bars, they are on the Mississippi state flag as the official flag of that state. I think the state should change its flag, but I do wonder who decided not to fly it at this event. A poor decision, I think. That's probably not the way to get the Mississippi flag changed.

[central scrutinizer]

2. We may learn more today

"TrackTown USA president Vin Lananna is expected to comment on the issue of the Mississippi flag today."

[gollygee]

4. I don't disagree with their decision

If you want something offensive to be a part of your state flag, you might find there are consequences.

[IDemo]

3. Mississippi flag in front of Boise City Hall taken down

The Mississippi state flag was taken down Wednesday morning from a group of state flags in front of City Hall because it contains the Confederate emblem, according to Mike Journee, spokesperson for the mayor’s office.

Boise Mayor Dave Bieter asked for the removal after the killing of nine people in a historic black church in Charleston, South Carolina led to wide criticism of the Confederate flag.

Mike Journee, a spokesman for the mayor’s office, said Boise has a strong reputation as welcoming city and one that embraces diversity.

“This flag has been out there for many years The connotation and the understanding of the connotation has changed, especially with recent events,” Journee said.

The flag’s symbolism is not consistent with Boise’s stance as a welcoming community to diverse cultures, Journee said.

Read more here: http://www.idahostatesman.com/2015/06/23/3866122_report-mayor-wants-mississippi.html?rh=1#storylink=cpy