THOMASVILLE — A Thomasville City Council member who did not stand Monday for the pledge of allegiance to the American flag said she would feel like a hypocrite to do so.

At the beginning of each city council meeting, council members and those attending the meeting stand and pledge allegiance to the American flag in council chambers.

Council member Wanda Warren did not stand or take part in the pledge at the Monday city council meeting. At the end of the meeting, Warren voiced her reasons for not participating in the pledge.

“Black lives matter” was the first thing she said.

“We all know what’s going on in our country today,” Warren said. “Thank you for protesting for what is right.”

The council member said it is difficult to be discriminated against because of the color of one’s skin. 

“It affects a huge part of our community,” she said. “Discrimination is discrimination, and injustice is injustice.”

Warren, serving her first year on the council, said she will not stand for the pledge of allegiance to the American flag until there is fairness for all people. She added that she will do what she can to ensure fairness for everyone.

“So I might be sitting down for the pledge of allegiance for a long time,” the council member said. 

Senior reporter Patti Dozier can be reached at (229) 226-2400, ext. 1820