RICHMOND, Va. United States Sen. Tim Kaine said Monday he supports Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney taking down Confederate monuments in Richmond. As of July 1, a new state law allows localities to decide what to do with their monuments. However, the new law requires a process, but Stoney said they can be removed immediately for safety, due to the citys current state of emergency. Kaine said recent conversations with African Americans have helped him realize the monuments are more than a symbol of a painful history. Stoney said the monuments will be held in storage until the legal process for removing them plays out.

WASHINGTON On Friday evening, President Donald Trump announced he signed an executive order protecting monuments, memorials and statues across the country. In his tweet, the president also promised, Long prison terms for these lawless acts against our Great Country!I just had the privilege of signing a very strong Executive Order protecting American Monuments, Memorials, and Statues - and combatting recent Criminal Violence. Long prison terms for these lawless acts against our Great Country! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 26, 2020The president said this order is in response to the recent criminal violence. Earlier this week, the president said he would sign such an order.

Northams announcement to remove the statue of Robert E. Lee in Richmond, the conversation has shifted to other cities across Virginia. Since that action and even before, there has been much discussion about Lynchburgs own confederate statues. Earlier this year, we had extensive conversations about a confederate battle flag that was thought to have connections to Lynchburg. Peoples opinion regarding these statues is as varied as the reasons for the Civil War. My concerns are more for the citizens of Lynchburg, especially those who are suffering.

RICHMOND, Va. Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney announced plans to remove the other Confederate monuments along Monument Avenue, which include statues of Confederate President Jefferson Davis and Confederate Gens. Ralph Northam is expected to announce plans to remove the Lee statue on Thursday. Stoney said he would introduce an ordinance July 1 to have the statues removed. Starting July 1, localities gain the ability to remove, relocate, or contextualize the monuments in their communities. Richmond is no longer the Capital of the Confederacy - it is filled with diversity and love for all - and we need to demonstrate that.