>Why is this even an issue now?

Many in the African American community are claiming that the flag is racist and is offensive to them and should be changed. The flag has been in its present form since 1956 or so. I'm not sure why it is just now an issue.

They are VERY serious and are trying to initiate a National boycott of Atlanta. They are also trying to get groups like the NCAA to cancel major events ( I think one of the B-ball championships is scheduled in Atlanta a couple of years from now) to be canceled. If successful the boycott could cost millions of dollars in lost revenue.