As statues fall, freedom crumbles.
New York City Considers Removing Historical Statues
New York City is currently discussing the removal of statues honoring significant historical figures, including Christopher Columbus and, shockingly, George Washington.
The controversy surrounding Washington stems from his ownership of slaves. Despite the fact that he treated his slaves with respect and played a crucial role in the creation of the United States, he is now being condemned for his past actions.
Alan Dershowitz and Andrew Stein criticize this new perspective on Washington, emphasizing his contributions to America’s formation:
“George Washington did benefit from slavery, although he emancipated his own slaves upon his death. But what he accomplished for other people changed the face of America for the better. There probably wouldn’t have been a United States of America were it not for Gen. Washington. He demanded equal rights for those of all religious persuasions, sending letters to the leaders of various denominations … Certainly, that and his other good deeds should be part of any calculus in evaluating America’s first president.”
If the city’s cultural affairs committee decides against removing the statues, they plan to install explanatory plaques next to each one, highlighting the perceived cultural “sins” of these individuals.
Ironically, these individuals were the ones who fought for and established the freest country on Earth. They liberated our nation from the horrors of slavery and ensured freedom of speech and religion for all. However, due to the influence of the “woke” movement, they are now seen as irredeemable villains who must be erased from our collective memory.
GWU Drops ‘Colonials’ Nickname
In July 2020, George Washington University formed a committee to consider retiring the school’s nickname, “The Colonials,” as it was seen as glorifying colonialism and systemic oppression. Two years later, the committee announced the change, claiming that the original selection lacked thoughtful consideration.
Back in 1926, when the nickname was chosen, George Washington and the colonists were revered as heroes who fought for our freedom. The sacrifice they made united our country and instilled pride in the freedom they secured.
Historical Context
It is essential to understand Washington and Jefferson’s actions within their historical and social context. While they did own slaves, we now recognize that slavery was morally unacceptable. We must learn from history and strive for a more just society.
In my recent book, “Toward a More Perfect Union: The Moral and Cultural Case for Teaching the Great American Story,” I aim to provide a balanced understanding of our nation’s history and heritage. By erasing figures like Washington and Jefferson from our national memory, we risk losing sight of how we arrived at our current state and where we should go in the future.
In his book, “The War on History,” Jarrett Stepman discusses the dangers of destroying statues and monuments honoring our country’s founders:
“There is a spreading belief that the men who built this country were oppressive and their values irredeemable. The purveyors of this view argue that we must transcend the ugly ideas, principles, and even people of the past to perfect our society. We must transform America by wiping out previous generations celebrated as exceptional, but we know to be damnable.”
We cannot allow this transformation to occur. History has shown that once memories are erased, freedoms are also at risk. Let us celebrate our nation’s founders instead of condemning them, preserving our freedoms for future generations.
How did the university justify the decision to change the nickname?
S seen as controversial and offensive. The committee’s recommendation to change the nickname was recently approved by the university’s Board of Trustees.
The controversy surrounding the nickname stems from its association with colonization and the negative impact it had on indigenous peoples. Critics argue that using a term associated with colonization is inappropriate and offensive to the diverse community of students and staff at the university.
In a statement announcing the nickname change, George Washington University emphasized its commitment to inclusivity and creating a welcoming environment for all. The university recognizes that the term “Colonials” does not align with these values and has therefore decided to take action.
The decision has been met with mixed reactions. Some students and alumni support the change, believing that it reflects a progressive step towards fostering a more inclusive campus culture. Others, however, argue that the nickname has historical significance and should be retained as a reminder of the university’s connection to its namesake, George Washington.
It is important to acknowledge that the decision to change or retain a nickname is a complex one. On one hand, it is crucial to address and rectify any offensive or inappropriate associations that may exist. On the other hand, it is essential to preserve and honor the historical context and legacy of institutions.
Ultimately, the goal should be to find a balance that respects both the concerns of marginalized communities and the historical significance of the institution. This can be achieved through open and respectful dialogue, where the diverse voices of the community are heard and taken into consideration.
As society continues to evolve and become more aware of the impact of language and symbolism, it is natural for discussions and debates surrounding controversial names and statues to arise. These conversations provide an opportunity for growth and learning, as long as they are approached with empathy and a genuine willingness to understand different perspectives.
In the case of George Washington University, the decision to change the nickname “Colonials” may be seen as a step towards creating a more inclusive and respectful environment for all members of the university community. However, it is essential to continue engaging in conversations about historical figures and symbols, ensuring that we do not erase or oversimplify complex narratives in our quest for progress.
By acknowledging and understanding the nuances of our history, we can foster a more inclusive society that appreciates the contributions of all individuals, while also learning from the mistakes and shortcomings of the past.
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