Distinguished Speakers Series: Bree Newsome
January 31, 2017
07:00 PM - 09:00 PM
LS 105
Gena Alfonso
719.549.2687
gena.alfonso@csupueblo.edu
Bree Newsome Community organizer and activist who removed the Confederate Battle Flag from the South Carolina State House. Born with an artist's soul and spirit, Bree Newsome has always been sensitive to the essential role that are and symbols play in shaping culture and consciousness. As she watched the funeral of Rev. Clementa Pinkney, 1 of 9 people slaughtered in the name of white supremacy at Mother Emmanuel Church in Charleston SC state flag at half-mast while the Confederate Flag remained fully furled. Refusing to accept the premise of this image - that white supremacy is supreme untouchable and invincible - she scaled the 30ft flagpole in front of the SC statehouse and removed the "stars and bars" declaring, "This flag comes down today!" Bree's intention was to create a new image. a new symbol and a new consciousness of the power inherent in direct action. The iconic picture of her on the pole, flag in hand has become a touchstone of empowerment for the subjugated people.
