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?
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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