Williamson County's decision to remove the #ConfederateFlag from the county seal was long overdue. It's high time that officials respond to racial injustices. Removing the Confederate flag from Williamson county seal symbolizes that response. The decision demonstrates the county's commitment to diversity, equity and racial justice.

The fight against systemic racism is still ongoing. In that fight, the symbols that empower discriminatory views and glorify a dark period of US history must be addressed. Confederate monuments remind citizens of the horrors their ancestors went through. It is time to eradicate the images that symbolize pains of the past and promote unity. 

Moreover, the efforts to eliminate racial injustices should be visible throughout the community. Aside from concrete practical steps, the symbols and images must also be in line with the struggle for equality. Dustin Koctacr, whose petition to remove the flag from the county seal amassed thousands of signatures, voiced similar opinions: "since this is my home, I want to ensure that we are a community that is welcoming and hospitable to everyone through the words that we say, the values that we hold and the images that we promote." 

Along with the symbolic importance, the decision to do away with the flag will also have positive impacts on business and tourism. The taskforce that made the recommendation to remove the Confederate flag examined these impacts in detail. The taskforce stresses that the decision presents Williamson County as all inclusive and welcoming. An image that will attract large businesses. This will increase revenues for the county and create jobs. Keeping the flag, on the other hand, could result in negative media and loss of tourism as observed in Mississippi. 

This is the right time to have difficult conversations about racism. The wave of protests and shows of solidarity that have taken over America must be reciprocated everywhere. The Confederate Flag represents the prejudices that don't have a place in today's America, much less so as an official insignia. Removing it from the seal is the first great step in making Williamson County more equitable for all.