Mississippi governor opposes ‘separate but equal’ option to create a second state flag
Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves said Monday on social media that he opposes any proposal that would establish a second state flag.
Reeves initially indicated he would consider a potential bill from the state Legislature allowing a second official flag to be flown in place of the current banner, which includes the Confederate emblem.
When asked about a potential two-flag solution on June 18, Reeves said “I’m open to any conversation about a solution.” He also said local governments and businesses have the right to decide whether to fly the current flag.
But on Monday, Reeves said a second flag would only create further division.
“Let’s call it the “Separate but Equal” flag option,” Reeves said in a statement.
“While well-intentioned I’m sure, it does not meet the threshold. Any similar plan would actually accomplish the exact opposite of our state goal — it would actually divide the state more. I don’t believe it would satisfy either side of this debate, and I don’t think it is a viable alternative.”
Reeves has been adamant that he will not sign off on a bill that changes the state flag. He has said the flag should only be changed through a referendum vote by Mississippians.
“Over the last several years, I have repeatedly warned my fellow Mississippians that any attempt to change the current Mississippi flag by a few politicians in the Capitol will be met with much contempt,” Reeves said. “If the leadership in 2001 had not put it on the ballot, then the conversation may be different. But they did. And therefore we must work together to find a solution where, when everyone has their say, we can come back together as a family and prosper.”
Pressure has picked up on Reeves and the state Legislature as protests over systemic racism have taken place across the nation.
On Monday, Conference USA said it will not allow any championship events to take place in Mississippi after the NCAA and Southeastern Conference made similar statements last week.
