The NAACP has a petition going around to remove the Confederate memorial in downtown Portsmouth, saying it "is dividing the city". The monument was built in 1867, and represents each of the Confederacy's branches - artillery, infantry, navy, and Calvary. The 35 foot monument is engraved with the dates of the Civil War at the middle section of the statue.

The Civil War is a HUGE part of our southern heritage, and just like any war, monuments honor those whose lives were lost. It is a tribute to those who fought and died, not a statute promoting an agenda. It can, in no way, divide the city. It has stood proudly for 148 years, and it is senseless to think removing it will solve any problems of today's society.

It is time we defend our southern heritage and start speaking up for our monuments, and our rights too.

Please sign my petition to keep the monument in Portsmouth.