North State Journal: “A prominent Mississippi business leader said Wednesday the decision to change the state’s flag has removed a “significant impediment” to economic development in Mississippi.
Mississippi lawmakers voted last year to retire a Confederate-themed flag state as part of the national reckoning over protests against law enforcement.
“This, I think, removes a significant impediment, and will change perceptions of Mississippi across this country and across the world,” said Anthony Wilson, 2020-2021 Mississippi Economic Council chair, at the council’s annual meeting in Jackson.
The Mississippi Economic Council was a staunch supporter of the legislature’s decision to surrender the last state banner in the U.S. that included the Confederate battle emblem — a red field topped by a blue X with 13 white stars.
During the November 2020 Election, Mississippi voters approved the new state flag with a magnolia and the phrase “In God We Trust.” That flag was officially adopted by the state Legislature this year.
The flag was displayed prominently at the in-person event at the Jackson Convention Complex, which drew hundreds of business leaders from across the state. Dozens of small state flags lined a red carpet in front of a stage and podium, behind which was displayed another massive state flag.
Wilson, who is president and CEO of Mississippi Power, a subsidiary of Southern Company, said he is filled with pride when he sees people all over Mississippi choosing to fly the new flag.
“I see more state flags today than I ever have in my life,” he said. “Without question, taking down the controversial state flag was a defining moment for our state.””