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Indeed. Have a popular vote.

For the same reason we often let a small group of activists decide which statues to erect in the first place?

Many changes which I'd expect are commonly understood to be positive for society started with a small group of activists. Movements start small and public opinion doesn't change overnight. Sometimes public opinion needs a nudge from a small noteworthy action.

Had you ever discussed applying democratic values to the evaluation of the suitability of historical public statues spontaneously, before these actions made the news?