House Concurrent Resolution 94

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND RECOGNIZING THE COUNCIL OF THE EPISCOPAL DIOCESE OF MISSISSIPPI FOR THEIR EFFORTS URGING THE REMOVAL OF THE CONFEDERATE BATTLE FLAG FROM MISSISSIPPI'S STATE FLAG.

WHEREAS, the 189th Annual Council of the Episcopal Diocese of Mississippi, resolving to make the State of Mississippi a more inclusive community, recognizes that icons and symbols are, and have always been, important to the liturgical life and practice of the Episcopal Church in leading followers to Jesus Christ and inspiring them to share the good news that is the heart of the church's ministry; and

WHEREAS, in light of the importance of symbols and icons and the church's baptismal covenant commitment to respect the dignity of every human being, the 189th Annual Council of the Episcopal Diocese of Mississippi encourages the Mississippi Legislature to adopt a flag that does not include the Confederate Battle Flag, but instead, adopt a state flag that represents, unites and respects the dignity of all the citizens of Mississippi; and

WHEREAS, the 189th Annual Council of the Diocese of Mississippi urges the Legislature to take such action prior to the 2017 observance of the bicentennial of Mississippi's becoming a member of the United States of America and the opening of the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum; and

WHEREAS, it is the policy of this Legislature to recognize institutions like the Council of the Episcopal Diocese of Mississippi, for their effort in uniting the State of Mississippi, and working towards the incontrovertible standard of true equality:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, THE SENATE CONCURRING THEREIN, That we do hereby commend and recognize the 189th Annual Council of the Episcopal Diocese of Mississippi for their efforts urging the removal of the Confederate Battle Flag from Mississippi's state flag.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to Bishop Brian R. Seage and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.