A hate group is targeting a city in the Ozarks once again. For years, some in Harrison, Arkansas have fought the stigma of being a home to bigotry. 

A large, white and black billboard along Highway 65 reads: #secede. League of the South. The Southern Poverty Law Center describes the League of the South as a neo-confederate hate group.

"To see it right in the middle of town, knowing why and what they represent is kind of shocking," says Ron Bowen who works in Harrison.

It's the latest controversial billboard part of a handful that have popped up in the Harrison area over the years.

KSPR spoke with the man who owns the billboard, who also works at Harrison Signs. He wouldn't go on camera with us, only saying that he doesn't necessarily agree with the message, but does agree in free speech.

"He does have the amendment and it is his right. Is it good for the city? I think our citizens now that a small fraction around here, I am not going to say on their way out.  I think our citizens are working and pushing for our city to be open for all," says Harrison Mayor Dan Sherrell.

Harrison is making great strides in that direction. In January, students at Harrison High School launched the "We are Harrison" movement. The Facebook page promotes tolerance, diversity and positive messages.

"It wasn't that long ago when that we had race riots and all those horrible things in this town. These are things that people were raised up with. It takes a while to breed that out.Hate is nurtured, not natured," says Harrison High School Senior, Mariah Moore.

People who live and work here say billboards like this, do not define who they are.

"It's a fashion that is probably going to end up like high snap shoes. Eventually, they are going to be put on the shelf," says Bowen.

KSPR called The League of the South to see if they have a chapter in Harrison. Our phone calls were not returned.

For more information:

We are Harrison: https://www.facebook.com/harrisontaskforce

Southern Poverty Law Center:  http://www.splcenter.org/