FORT WORTH (WBAP/KLIF)- Tarrant County Commissioners voted to remove a confederate monument outside the Tarrant County Courthouse.
The marker was erected in 1953 to dedicate Confederate War Soldiers.
The vote comes after several protesters demanded the removal of the monument in light of recent events.
“We should not have any monuments on any Tarrant County public property that is believed by many as a symbol of racism,” said Tarrant County Judge Glen Whitley.
Whitley went on to saying he wants better schools, better jobs and a better society for everyone is committed to listening and learning to make Tarrant County a better place.
“Ending racism will take more than just removing monuments,” said Whitley. “While this is another step in the right direction, I want this country and this county to be a place where everyone is treated equal,” he said.
Dozens of people voiced their opinions at the Commissioners Court Meeting on Tuesday. Some argued the monument is a painful reminder of brutal times of slavery.
Others argued this honors the local veterans of the Civil War and we must learn from history not be offended or victimized by it.
It is likely this monument will not be destroyed, rather placed in a museum of some sort.
Whitley said he appreciates everyone voicing their opinion and standing up for what they believe in. He said listening and learning, hearing the other side and trying to walk in someone else’s shoes is the best thing to do. “If we really approach it with an open heart and open mind maybe we can really begin to tear down some of the walls that do still exist,” said Whitley. “We can all do more, we can all be better and it starts with each and every one of us. I’m committed to trying to do my part in listening and trying to understand where each of us are coming from,” he said.
The vote passed 4-0 with one abstention to remove the monument.