As earlier reported, the Monument Fund’s request to install cameras in both parks was rejected by the City without explanation. The Charlottesville Police Department is supposedly investigating the damage, but have provided no status updates.
Both parks are poorly lit and we have made the Parks and Recreation Department aware that several of the lamps near the Jackson Monument are not functioning. Local activists operate under the cover of darkness, and now apparently with impunity.
It is abundantly clear that the City of Charlottesville has no interest in protecting or maintaining these monuments. Would the City be so callous and neglectful if any other Historical Landmark were so targeted? Doubtful - there would probably be lights, cameras, and increased Police patrol.
City Council has given its attorneys permission to appeal Judge Moore’s September 13 decision that both monuments are afforded protection under Virginia Statute §15.2-1812.
They are banking on a successful appeal and the possibility that the now Republican-controlled Virginia General Assembly will be Democrat-controlled after the November 5, 2019 election.
Democrats have tried to change the language of VA Statute §15.2-1812 twice in recent years; if they gain the majority, a third attempt may be successful, putting all Virginia monuments (not just Confederate) in danger of removal. If you live in Virginia, make sure you know your candidate’s (regardless of political affiliation) position on all issues important to you and VOTE on Tuesday, November 5!
While the battle seems all uphill, we are not giving up. We will continue to press for action and have a dedicated group of volunteers who are monitoring the parks. If you are local and would like to join us, please message this page. Felonies are being committed and we aim to witness, record, and report them to the authorities. If you are monitoring the parks on your own, do not engage - please only document and report. If you see the monuments being damaged, a felony is being committed and you can call 911 to report.
To that end, a reward is available through Crimestoppers to anyone providing a tip that leads to the arrest of those involved: 434-977-4000.
To all of you who continue to support our efforts, Thank You. As we are facing an appeal and are awaiting receipt of an estimate to repair the damage inflicted on the monuments, any donations received will be put to immediate good use: https://www.themonumentfund.org/donate/ or checks made payable to The Monument Fund, P.O. Box 483, Charlottesville, VA 22902
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