Editor’s Note: Those who go to Tyler’s Paper’s Facebook page often comment on stories and share what’s on their mind.

There have been several comments about the recent protests and push to change the name of Robert E. Lee High School.

“Just change it already so we can move on. Geez tired of hearing about it”

Brittany Nicole Hopkins

“It is just a name people. Robert E. Lee hasn’t hurt one person that is living today. People that are bad today aren’t bad because of what happen in the past.”

Robert Barton

“Maybe the money they spent building two new high schools should have been used to buy the land and build ONE high school for the entire city, name it TYLER HIGH SCHOOL and be done with all this name changing malarkey!”

Robin Wilson

“I had an amazing night protesting.”

Larna Lacroix

“This was a beautiful peaceful protest! So much unity! I am proud to have participated with my grandchildren who were still voicing “No Justice, No Peace” and “Change the Name” on the ride home. The two oldest will be attending REL in two years and they understand and want the name changed before they get there. AND NOOOOOOO! We are not moving! We love our home and it is our right to protest an injustice happening in OUR community! So SAVE IT! Have a blessed day!”

Debbie Herrera Espinosa

“The school board members in 1957 knew this day will come. That’s why they allowed students to name the schools. Names have nothing to do with the civil war Generals. They were name to deceived blacks coming to Tyler High, from Emmit Scott.”

Mark Martin

“I for one am excited to see so many young people interested in history and politics. Gives me hope for the future.”

Natasha Malone

“Change makes ignorant people uncomfortable”

LaTonya Ross

“If you don’t see value in changing the name you haven’t paid any attention at all to what the group of people protesting it have said. It’s so disheartening to see such a complete lack of empathy from people who clearly don’t want to properly understand or educate themselves on why it is still a slap in the face to many of the students, teachers, etc to keep this name.”

Victoria Vorsas

“If it’s “just a name” why fight so hard to keep it ? Hmmm.”

Tyeisha La’Sha

“Why is this so important?? I think theres more things to rally against!!!”

Shanon Bland Harris

There have also been comments about Smith County Judge Nathaniel Moran’s decision to not require masks.

“Thank you Judge Moran for leaving this up to the people to decide! I appreciate your confidence in us that we can handle our own health and safety. I appreciate any recommendations on what you think people may need to do, but when it comes down to it, all people should be FREE to make their own choices.”

Nicole Nannen

“I remember when he said that we wouldn’t have a stay at home order and then two weeks later… We had a stay at home order.”

April Lee Lake

“My husband and I have just returned from a town which requires everyone to wear a mask in public. Even the babies wear masks. Their rates of Covid 19 are very low. I felt much safer there than I will being back in Tyler. It’s really not a problem to wear a mask I don’t understand the opposition.”

Claudia Davidson Carroll

“Thank you Judge Moran for not forcing healthy citizens to wear a mask that doesn’t prevent virions from passing through. Meanwhile those that chose to wear a mask are free too.”

Melisa Durose

“Please do not require masks. You can recommend. Just not require.”

Misty Smirl Adair