WTVF-NASHVILLE — State law states "it is the duty of the governor of this state to proclaim" July 13 as "Nathan Bedford Forrest Day." Governor reignited a discussion a few weeks ago when he went along with his first proclamation as Governor, but stated his reservations about it:
"While it is my job as governor to enforce the law, I want Tennesseans to know where my heart is on this issue," Lee tweeted. "Our state’s history is rich, complex and in some cases painful. With this in mind, I will be working to change this law."
Nathan Bedford Forrest was known for his military expertise and victories, but was also known as a slave trader, and former leader of the Ku Klux Klan. With such a dark history, should Tennessee continue to honor him in this way?
What do YOU think?
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State law states "it is the duty of the governor of this state to proclaim" July 13 as "Nathan Bedford Forrest Day." Governor reignited a discussion a few weeks ago when he went along with his first proclamation as Governor, but stated his reservations about it: "While it is my job as governor to enforce the law, I want Tennesseans to know where my heart is on this issue," Lee tweeted. "Our state’s history is rich, complex and in some cases painful. With this in mind, I will be working to change this law." Nathan Bedford Forrest was known for his military expertise and victories, but was also known as a slave trader, and former leader of the Ku Klux Klan. With such a dark history, should Tennessee continue to honor him in this way? What do YOU think?
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