In the debate over whether to remove controversial historical figures and symbols, Mississippi’s is the example to follow.

The state House and Senate voted this weekend to remove a Confederate emblem from its state flag, and to replace the flag with a new design. This was done peacefully, with debate, and through the democratic channels that exist for this very kind of thing. And now residents have the chance to vote in favor or against whatever new design a nine-person commission will create by November.