This morning I discussing with my friends how I read that protesters were banned from a lecture about free speech. We had been talking and laughing over the irony of it when my algebra teacher asked me what my ideas were about freedom of speech and standing up and saying the pledge to the American flag. I thought about it and replied that those people should have the right to not stand or say the pledge unless there is a law against it (I have later learned Texas has a law that you must) but I personally believe it is respectful to recite the pledge of the nation you live in.
Public School Laws
According to CPE public schools must follow these laws:
- Must be fair to religion while avoiding devotion.
- Must treat all children equally.
- Must depend annually on state and federal laws to finance ambitious programs.
- Must respect the freedoms that students and staff hold as American citizens.
Different schools follow different rules and that may cause you or other people to disagree with these rules public schools should follow. These laws do state that schools "must respect the freedoms that students ... hold as American citizens" and therefore state that you are not legally required to stand and recite the pledge as an American student. Sadly, in any other place, if you were caught of not standing during the pledge you could be reprimanded but more often than not no legal course would be taken. At this point, it is up to YOU as an American citizen what your actions are and whether you will stand or sit during the pledge.
Feel free to comment what you think about this situation occurring all over our nation and what you believe is the right course of action.