Letter to the editor
I protest the “permanent” removal of the statue of Robert E. Lee from the entry way of Duke Chapel. I understand your reasoning for removal now for safety reasons for those worshipping in the Chapel. During the summer school session in 1965, I volunteered to give tours of the Chapel. I learned the reasoning for and the names of all those etched in glass and carved in stone that adorn this great house of worship. I introduced visitors to those figures on the right of the entrance: Martin Luther, reformer of the Bible; Savonarola, preacher of the Bible; and, John Wycliffe, translator of the Bible. On the left: Thomas Jefferson, president from the South; Robert E. Lee, statesman from the South; and Sidney Lanier, poet from the South. General Lee is depicted in his military uniform, but his legacy is that of a statesman. He abhorred war, agreed to lead reluctantly, surrendered graciously and went on to promote education. His inclusion was never intended to promote the Confederacy.