Video removed after Confederate flag appears in NC exhibit at national fair
A spokesperson for the exhibit that the image was not approved.
WASHINGTON, D.C. (WTVD) -- A video display at a North Carolina exhibit at the Great American State Fair in Washington, D.C., was taken down Friday after briefly showing a Confederate flag, drawing criticism from state leaders.
The image appeared on a video board inside the North Carolina pavilion on the National Mall. Organizers said the video was removed later that afternoon after they became aware of the issue.
In a statement, a spokesperson for the exhibit told our newsgathering partners Spectrum News 1 that the image was not approved.
“As soon as we were made aware, we immediately removed the video and began reviewing how it occurred,” the statement said. “Our focus remains on celebrating America’s 250th birthday and North Carolina’s role in our nation’s history.”
Displays at the booth included the current North Carolina flag, but one video reportedly showed a split image featuring both the current flag and the Confederate flag.
The state of North Carolina did not sponsor a booth at the fair, citing costs. Instead, the exhibit was funded by private sponsors.
The governor’s office also responded, calling the display unacceptable.
“This display does not reflect the North Carolina that we love,” a spokesperson told Spectrum News 1. “America 250 is about unity and bringing our nation together. Glorifying this divisive symbol does the exact opposite.”
Organizers say they are reviewing how the image was included.
