Have strong feelings about Dallas’ Confederate monuments? Speak up at these events

Since Robert E. Lee’s likeness was removed from Turtle Creek, tensions about Confederate monuments are increasing.

Preston Hollow neighbors can voice their many opinions about these monuments at a special city council meeting, slated Wednesday, Oct. 25, at 6 p.m. Speakers must register online or by phone at 214.670.3738 before the discussion at Dallas City Hall begins. Get all the details here.

SMU’s Community Conversation also gives neighbors the chance to discuss statues and school names with Confederate ties.

Rachel Ball-Phillips, who teaches South Asian History and Indian Studies, organized the event. She hopes it will help Dallasites remove emotion from the decision-making process.

“The goal is for people to walk away with historical knowledge and context to make naming decisions,” she says. “It serves children better and serves the community better.”

SMU professors from the History, Ethnic Studies and Humanities departments will make short presentations and answer attendees’ questions.

“When people are sick, they go to a medical doctor. In the middle of historical controversy, it makes sense to tap into a historian,” Ball-Phillips says.

The event is slated Monday, Oct. 30, from 6-7:30 p.m. at Dallas Hall in McCord Auditorium. Space is limited, so be sure to RSVP before the event. Reserve your spot and learn more here.