Charlottesville council considers ending observance of Lee Jackson Day amid community concerns

The City Council of Charlottesville convened on February 2, 2015, to discuss a significant public hearing regarding the potential end of the observance of Lee Jackson Day. The meeting began with a presentation outlining the historical context of the holiday, which commemorates Confederate generals Robert E. Lee and Stonewall Jackson. The observance of Lee Jackson Day dates back to 1889, with Stonewall Jackson being added in 1904.

In 1983, Martin Luther King Jr. Day was established as a federal holiday, and subsequent legislative changes in Virginia led to the combination of the two holidays until 2000, when Governor Jim Gilmore separated them. Currently, Charlottesville continues to observe both holidays, but a request has been made to end the city's recognition of Lee Jackson Day due to concerns that it is offensive to many community members, particularly people of color.

During the meeting, it was noted that several municipalities in Virginia, including Alexandria and Virginia Beach, have opted not to observe Lee Jackson Day. The council clarified that if the observance is ended, it would mean there would be no day off for the holiday.

Additionally, city staff proposed the possibility of adding another holiday to the official list, with options including Veterans Day or a day around Thanksgiving. The council emphasized that no action would be taken during this meeting, with a decision expected at the next scheduled meeting on February 17.

The public hearing allowed for community input, with some expressing strong opinions on the matter. One speaker criticized the council's consideration of ending the holiday, arguing that it reflects a broader trend of altering historical recognition to align with contemporary views.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further discussion and consideration of community feedback before any final decisions are made regarding the observance of Lee Jackson Day.