The Florida Senate is in the process of removing the Confederate battle flag from the Senate’s official seal. The Senate Rules Committee on Thursday, Oct. 8 voted unanimously to revise the Senate seal that now contains the Confederate battle flag alongside those of the United States, Great Britain, France and Spain – all which have flown over the state throughout its history. Senate Democratic Leader Arthenia Joyner (D-Tampa) requested that the symbol be struck from the Senate Seal in June. Senate President Andy Gardiner, noting that the Seal dated to 1973 and the many changes Florida has undergone since then, formally requested that the Senate Rules Committee take up the issue and make recommendations for full Senate action.
“The recommendation to remove the Confederate flag from our seal will never erase a painful period in Florida’s history, nor the blood recently spilled in a South Carolina church in its name,” said Leader Joyner. “But the unified voices ratifying this action gives us hope for healing these wounds once and for all. And, as we look forward to the full Senate’s endorsement, a powerful symbol that we stand together as one.” Under Senate Rules, two-thirds of the sitting membership must approve the recommendation to change the official seal. That vote is expected to come as the 2016 legislative session convenes in January.
Senator Bill Montford can be reached at (850) 487-5003 if anyone would like to discuss their thoughts on the vote. Senator Montford will also be in Madison County for the annual Legislative Delegation Meeting held at the Madison County Courthouse Annex on Monday, Dec. 7 at 6 p.m. He will be available to discuss concerns, answer questions and offer comments prior to the upcoming 2016 Legislative Session.