At the Caddo Commission work session yesterday (Mon.) Commissioner Ken Epperson introduced a “Resolution to Urge Return to the Meaning of Memorial Day.” The resolution was passed to this Thursday’s regular meeting, where it can be voted on by a majority of the commissioners.
In a whereas clause the resolution states that the majority of Americans view Memorial Day as a time for relaxation and leisure recreation rather than as a solemn occasion to reflect and pay tribute to the American servicemen and women who sacrificed their lives defending our nation.
Another whereas clause says that “this view is evidenced by the prevalence of retail promotions, social media posts displaying ‘Happy Memorial Day” and inappropriate displays on the graces of service members.”
The resolution concludes with “Be IT FUTHER RESOLVED that the Commission expresses disapproval of all activities that detract from the solemnness of Memorial Day especially in Caddo Parish.”
In his comments Epperson ranted against local retailers who have mattress sales and furniture sales and other Memorial Day sales as inappropriate.
Evidently Epperson does not believe that Americans can take time to remember the significance of Memorial Day and still have recreational activities and attend retail sales. He also must believe that all retailers do not recognize the significance of Memorial Day.
Furthermore he must believe in censoring social media posts and that survivors do not have a choice in what they display on the graves of their deceased relatives.
Does Epperson believe that Americans should follow the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Fitr which celebrated the end of the month-long dawn-to-sunset fasting of Ramadan.
Not surprisingly Epperson did not comment on what activities he did or did not do over the Memorial Day weekend.
Is this the type of legislation that the Caddo Commission should be enacting? Tune is to the commission meeting on Thursday to see what comments are made on this resolution and the votes by the commissioners.
John came to Shreveport in January of 1977 when he was transferred to Barksdale AFB.
He’s been active in Shreveport politics since deciding to make Shreveport his home.
John practiced law for 40 years and he now monitors local politics. He regularly attends Shreveport City Council and Caddo Parish Commission meetings.
John is published weekly in The Inquisitor, bi-monthly in The Forum News, and frequently in the Shreveport Times.
He enjoys addressing civic groups on local government issues and elections.