Some call her "the modern day Rosa Parks," while others simply view her actions as the work of a criminal. Brittany Ann Byuarium Newsome climbed a 30-foot pole in front of the South Carolina Capitol and removed the Confederate flag this past Saturday (June 27). The activist's brave move was applauded by several figures in hip-hop after Newsome was arrested with fellow activist James Tyson (who helped Bree) after she climbed back down. Today, the two 30-year-olds finally spoke out about why they felt the need to take down the hatred-filled flag, and what it means for Black people today after racist Charleston church killer Dylann Roof was seen holding the flag in several photos.
Despite two Black workers having to raise the flag back up, Bree has no regrets for what she's done, as she has inspired others with her actions. "I just felt very strongly that we needed that moment to say enough is enough," Newsome stated on Good Morning America. "We want an end to the hate." Once her and Tyson - who had met just a week prior - were released from jail, Bree put out a statement with her reason behind the flag removal, expressing that "we can't continue like this another day." "It's time for a new chapter where we are sincere about dismantling white supremacy and building toward true racial justice and equality."
Last week South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley announced that there will be a decision made about the Confederate flag's standing incoming weeks.
Source: NYDailyNews
