Mississippi overwhelmingly votes to replace Confederate-emblem state flag

(Worthy News) –
Mississippi has officially decided to ditch its old Confederate-themed state flag and has approved a new flag with the phrase “In God We Trust,” Christian Headlines reports. Approval for the new flag was given through a 78-22 percent vote, with nearly all votes counted.

There had been ongoing factious debate over changing the controversial flag but, following this summer’s nationwide protests against racial injustice, the Republican-led legislature approved and GOP Gov. Tate Reeves signed a bill necessitating a new flag design. A commission was also set up recommending voter approval for the phrase “In God We Trust” to appear in the new design, Christian Headlines reports.

In light of the social unrest following the death of George Floyd in May, the Mississippi Baptist Convention Board (MBCB) was also keen to recommend the flag be changed.

In a statement, the MBCB said: “While some may see the current flag as a celebration of heritage, a significant portion of our state sees it as a relic of racism and a symbol of hatred.”

“The racial overtones of the flag’s appearance make this discussion a moral issue. Since the principal teachings of Scripture are opposed to racism, a stand against such is a matter of biblical morality. Jesus’ ethical teaching calls us to rise above the precepts of this world, to demonstrate a higher treatment of others. … It is therefore apparent that the need to change the flag is a matter of discipleship for every follower of Jesus Christ,” the MBCB asserted.

The new flag has the Magnolia state flower blossom on a dark blue background with gold stripes and red bars on both sides. Written in capital letters, the phrase “In God We Trust,” appears under the flower.

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