With all of the controversy surrounding Confederate general's and soldier's names in America, a Midland man has filed a petition to rename Robert E. Lee High School.

According to NewsWest 9, the person behind the petition wants it to be signed by school alumni and residents of Midland only.

A similar petition had been filed a few years ago but it was from an outside party and not from anyone living in Midland so MISD did not move on it.

Courtney Ratliff is the Midlander that filed the petition stating that Confederate symbols have been painful for many decades.

"For many, the name of the school, the mascot, and the Confederate symbols used to celebrate success have caused pain for decades and continues to do so.”

Ratliff expects some opposition to the name change but feels the time has come.

I am a 1984 graduate of Midland Lee High School but I am undecided on the name change. My diploma will always say Robert E. Lee High School, Midland, Texas on it, however, I DO see how Confederate names are painful reminders to some citizens of the country and need to be changed.

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