WASHINGTON — Confederate President Jefferson Davis’ name will remain on Route 1 in Prince William County, at least for the time being.
Residents opposed to Confederate names on public landmarks chanted “Shame” and shouted their disapproval at the County Board of Supervisors meeting Tuesday night after no supervisor would second a motion by Supervisor Frank Principi, (D-Woodbridge) to open debate on getting rid of Confederate names in the county, including Jefferson Davis Highway.
“We should not honor or memorialize those who did not believe in, who openly fought against, equity and fair treatment for all,” Principi told the board.
“When we were children we were all told by our parents that ‘sticks and stones may break our bones but names will never hurt us.’ Sadly, as we’ve all gotten older, and experienced a bit of life, we know that just isn’t true,” Principi said.
But with no board member swayed by Principi’s argument, the measure died, surprising and angering residents who want Confederate names to go.
“Do your jobs, shame on all of you,” one member of the crowd shouted as others joined in.
“Please respect the board rules, otherwise we’ll have to clear the room,” said Chairman Corey Stewart.
As the crowd continued to shout its displeasure, Stewart ordered audience members out of the room.
