August 25th, 2017 by WCBC Radio

Maryland’s governor has promised that the state flag will stay the way it is. Gov. Larry Hogan’s statement Thursday comes amid a national debate over what should be done with Confederate monuments and emblems. WTOP reports Maryland’s banner includes a red-and-white pattern that was adopted as a symbol of resistance among Marylanders who supported secession and by Maryland troops who joined the Confederate army while the state remained part of the Union during the Civil War. “Not only is the Maryland state flag a symbol of unity and pride, but it is also the most beautiful and most recognized state flag in America,” Hogan said. “You can rest assured that it will never be changed as long as I’m governor.” Although no state lawmaker has proposed changing the flag, it could be become a target as leaders in communities around the country debate changing or removing Confederate symbols after calls to remove a statue of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee from a park in Charlottesville sparked violent protests.