I want to applaud the decision by the Ole Miss ASB.

My only regret is that it takes a group of young students to have the courage to do what the political leadership in our state has failed to do.

I realize that both my state senator and state representative support a change in the state flag. I commend them. However, it’s too bad we do not have a governor with the same courage and leadership that was displayed by South Carolina Gov. Nickie Hailey.

Before someone accuses me of political correctness, let me set the record straight. I am a Reagan conservative, a theological Calvinist and a longtime Republican. So you can hardly call me an advocate of political correctness. But this is not about political correctness. This is about common sense, decency and good business for our state.

I can only hope that Gov. Phil Bryant will quit hiding behind a referendum that took place 14 years ago and show the courage and leadership to make the necessary change in the state flag at the next legislative session. If I may quote Chucky Mullins, “It’s time.” In fact, it’s past time.

Gerald Gaia

Oxford