Photo courtesy Jackson State University

JACKSON — Sen. Derrick T. Simmons, D-Greenville, issued a statement today in response to Gov. Phil Bryant's proclamation naming April as Confederate Heritage Month.

"I as a citizen of Mississippi and as a State Senator am appalled and disappointed that while America celebrates Black History Month and the achievements of men and women who bridged the historic gap between the races, Governor Phil Bryant would proclaim April to be Confederate Heritage Month, but is not bold enough to admit that we need to change our divisive pro-slavery state flag in order to promote more peaceful dialogue between the races."

Read his full statement below: