An important Facebook post from Cameron Sloop, founder of the Tarheel Flaggers, states:
I will always proudly fly the flag of my ancestors… The Battle Flag is not a symbol of racism, or any negative connotation. It is a symbol of defiance to Tyranny. Our ancestors were brave for defying the federals! We must keep flying the flag.
Emphasis added. This is something that is always worth pointing out and repeating.
Source here