Bree Newsome is being hailed as a hero to some and a rebel to others after she climbed the flagpole bearing the Confederate Flag at the South Carolina statehouse and removed the symbol. Newsome was arrested for the daring act, which was also caught on video.
The incident took place Saturday morning (Jun. 27), with Brittany Ann Byuarium Newsome decked out in climbing and safety gear shouting down to police below according to a report from the New York Daily News.
“You cannot get to me with hatred and oppression and violence,” Newsome can be seen saying in the video. “I come against you in the name of God. This flag comes down today.”
In a related press release, the 30-year Charlotte, N.C. activist added, “We removed the flag today because we can’t wait any longer. We can’t continue like this another day. It’s time for a new chapter where we are sincere about dismantling white supremacy and building toward true racial justice and equality.”
James Tyson, who stood at the bottom of the pole, was also arrested. The flag was replaced almost immediately, with Newsome and Tyson facing charges of defacing a monument.
Newsome and Tyson’s arrest prompted a strong response on social media, with director Michael Moore, Rev. Jesse Jackson and others showing support.
Moore offered to pay Newsome’s legal fees, while Jackson is demanding her release. The event has sparked two hashtags, “#FreeBree” and “#KeepItDown” with lots of activity on both trending topics.
As this story develops, we will return with updates.
UPDATE: A crowdfunding campaign launched earlier today by CREDO Action raised an amazing $80,000 in 10 hours in support of Newsome’s legal fees and to set up a defense fund. She is reportedly out on $300 bail and still has to await a hearing regarding her earlier charges.
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Photo: YouTube
