The state flag of Mississippi is no longer flying outside the Oregon capitol. It was removed this week at the request of legislative leaders.
The Mississippi flag is the only state flag that includes the stars and bars of the Confederate battle flag. In Salem, it's been part of an outdoor display of all 50 state flags for the last decade.
Some lawmakers have been clamoring for its removal. They say the Confederate imagery is racist and has no place outside the Oregon capitol.
Legislative leaders were sympathetic to that point of view but last year said they wanted to give the state of Mississippi time to change its flag design. With no changes appearing imminent, the flag was removed this month.
The flagpole that represents the state of Mississippi is now empty.