No Room For Hate CaMpaign: Johnstown

A Campaign to Eliminate and Replace Hate Symbols 

Our Campaign has three major goals:     

1. Educate community members about the true history of the Confederate Flag, so ignorance cannot be used as an excuse if they choose to display the symbol

2. Spread the message that hate symbols are not welcome  in our community

3. Develop a new positive symbol for Johnstown that presents a clear message of Unity

Our Actions will include:

1. Development of education materials and signs: Our 2 page pamphlet is now available below and can be freely printed and shared. 

2. Development of a unifying symbol to represent Johnstown in coordination with local schools/students

3. Targeting local events where the Confederate flag is displayed

Why do we need this campaign?

The Confederate flag is still displayed throughout Western PA and are sold at events such as local fairs and Thunder in the Valley. The Confederate Flag is offensive to the majority of American due to its clear association with the Confederacy and its defense of slavery. However, unlike other hate symbols such as the swastika, which are deemed unacceptable by the majority of America, there has been an indefensible level of tolerance for the Confederate flag. Unlike many other symbols, there is also a racial and geographic divide associated with the Confederate flag. Black Americans and many Northerners associate it with efforts to maintain slavery and then, in the 20th century, to   maintain a segregated country. Some Southerners, however, still associate the flag with the struggle of their ancestors, and other individuals may simply be ignorant of the flags history and use it as a method to express Southern pride. Use of the flag by the KKK make it clear that this is a racist symbol. 

What can we accomplish?

1. Our vision is a community where all individuals can feel welcome because intimidation, whether it be through symbols such as the Confederate flag, or words or actions, are not tolerated. This Campaign will help move us away from negativity.

2. Western PA and the Johnstown area is currently recognized as an area of historic KKK activity where racism still festers. This campaign will help us redefine our image to one that is more inclusive. 

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