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American Fork apologizes for Confederate flag in Steel Days parade

Posted at 6:11 PM, Jul 09, 2016
and last updated 2016-07-09 20:11:56-04

AMERICAN FORK, Utah — The City of American Fork has apologized after a Confederate flag was displayed during their Steel Days Parade Saturday morning.

Video posted on Twitter by former NBA star Thurl Bailey showed the flag that appeared near the beginning of the parade, which was flying alongside an American flag on what appears to be a golf cart.

The city addressed the issue in a statement on their website. They called the incident a, “troubling display of hate in the form of a Confederate Flag.”

The city stated the parade entry was not one they approved, and they stated they respect other people’s opinions but encourage people to engage in discourse in constructive ways:

“This display was not an approved parade entry, and we as a City do not support this or any such symbols that can be interpreted as hateful or threatening.

We understand there are many opinions about these topics. However, because many individuals see the words and flag as symbols of hate and intolerance, we cannot sit quietly. These kinds of gestures incite anger, not peace; confusion, not understanding.

To all those who are encouraging and displaying behavior that may incite negativity, we boldly say: if you have something to say, SAY IT. But have the courage to speak up in a constructive way. Write a letter to the editor. Vote. Run for office. Comfort someone who is hurting through your words and your deeds. Speak up by helping, not hurting. Violent and angry words and actions create more hurt, and entice more anger. That is not the way to solve problems.

Sincerely,

The City of American Fork”