More Examples:
I see this everywhere. Hidden or transparent monochrome American black flags on large trucks or 4-Runners. Usually speeding or driving aggressively on the highway.
I found this:
The black and white American flag originated during the American Civil War between 1861 and 1865. It was created as an opposing symbol to the white flag, which symbolizes surrender. Confederate army soldiers flew the black flag to demonstrate they would not give in or surrender to the enemy. It showed that they would rather be killed than taken in as prisoner.
And this:
Sometimes soldiers show respect for their country by using the black version on their vehicles
My question is for the people doing this. What message are you trying to send? Are you openly telling your coworkers and neighbors that you are still supporting the South in a war that ended long ago? Are you low key showing your support for Trump? Are you ex military showing support for your country? I ask because at least for me, the message is unclear.
This is what annoys me, a lot of these replies act like there’s a hidden agenda to everything. Saying things like, “They must support white supremacy! It’s a racist dog whistle! They’re a Trump supporter”. Their assessments never have any nuance whatsoever: if you put that on your car, you’re all of the above.
They have such a condescending attitude and a superiority complex towards anyone who disagrees with them. They just can’t help but build this fictional stereotype about people they don’t like to vilify them.
It’s not wrong to like the American flag. While I’d never put it on my car, I know people who do, and they don’t have a single mean bone in their body.
That’s the whole point of a dog whistle, to hide the true meaning behind innocuous symbols and phrases. And if you’re someone who would be targeted by the hate groups using these dog whistles, it pays to be aware of them.
You’re right, there should be nuance, because there are people who use these symbols without it being a dog whistle. But to dismiss any concerns is dangerous, and exactly what the hate groups want.