We were horrified to learn that two Confederate flags were seen flying in Middlebury last week. This flag is a symbol of white supremacy that that disgusts us and sows pain and fear among many of us. Its display hurt several fellow community members who passed by.
When we discovered that one of the flags was flying at the home of our dear friend Pat Sprague, and that it had been put up by a visiting family member (who continued to put it up each time Pat removed it), we felt compelled to write a letter to the newspaper. This incident not only caused pain to many community members, but to Pat as well.
We know that this flag does not represent Pat Sprague. She harbors absolutely no bigotry or resentment toward any person or group. Despite the actions of another family member, we know she stands in solidarity with all who fight racism and hatred in our country, and that her home will never be the site of such a display in the future.
Frank Nicosia and Ellen Oxfeld
Middlebury