BILOXI - A city on the Mississippi Gulf Coast is the latest front line in the debate over the public display of Confederate symbols in the American South.

The mayor of Biloxi, Mississippi, ordered the state flag removed from city buildings in late April because it includes the Confederate battle emblem. That has sparked protest and praise in the city with a racially diverse population.

The Confederate battle emblem has caused a rift for generations between those who say it represents Southern heritage and those who say it glorifies slavery and racial oppression.

A few protesters holding state flags have been keeping a nearly daily vigil outside City Hall.

Some local residents say they support Mayor Andrew "FoFo" Gilich's decision because they believe the flag could make people feel unwelcome.