December 10th, 2025
More than a few people are deeply disturbed by the inclusion of a float dedicated to Confederate “Heritage” and the distribution of Confederate flags to children in North East’s annual Christmas parade. Editorially, there’s little Cecil TV can add to this story except to say that the Confederacy was a failed effort to preserve the enslavement of black people in the United States. So, for a majority of Americans, the symbols of the Confederacy and efforts to sentimentalize it as heritage are an immoral insult to people who cherish living in a free country.
Statement from North East’s mayor, Kelly Benson
For 35 Years, the Cecil County Christmas Parade proudly hosted by the Town of North East has always been a celebration built on joy, unity, and the timeless spirit of the holiday season. It is a tradition that brings our community together—children waiting eagerly along the sidewalks, families greeting neighbors, and local groups proudly sharing in the festivities.
As Mayor I want to be crystal clear that our Christmas Parade is;
• at its heart and overall mission, a celebration of holiday spirit and a reflection of our shared commitment to goodwill and togetherness, and
• Is not a platform that allows distractions from the joy, unity, and family-focused spirit of the season.
This year, a parade entry did not uphold the event’s mission and our town’s current policies did not provide adequate grounds to refuse participation by the group in question.
The Town will be taking steps to ensure that future participants uphold the values that make this event such an important part of our community’s holiday season. Our commitment is to preserve the parade as a joyful, welcoming celebration where the focus remains on unity, community, and the spirit of Christmas.
Mayor Kelly Benson
North East
