(WTVA) - Walmart has made the decision to remove the Mississippi state flag from its stores.

The flag features a Confederate battle emblem, and changing the flag has been a heated debate for decades.

“Displaying state flags in our stores is a common practice nationwide,” Anne Hatfield, Walmart spokesperson said. “We know the design of the Mississippi state flag is being discussed by various stakeholders. While the issue continues to be discussed, we’ve made the decision to remove the Mississippi state flag from display in its current form from our stores.

“We believe it’s the right thing to do, and is consistent with Walmart’s position to not sell merchandise with the confederate flag from stores and online sites, as part of our commitment to provide a welcoming and inclusive experience for all of our customers in the communities we serve.”

Entities, including the NCAA and the Southeastern Conference (SEC), have also expressed disapproval of the current flag. Leaders at Mississippi State University and Ole Miss, which are both members of the SEC, have also pushed for the flag to be changed.

This has put pressure on state lawmakers to make a decision about the flag's fate.