Off The Fence

I recently posted my lack of decision on whether there should be an amendment to ban the burning of the American flag. I have finally taken in both sides and made a calculated conclusion of my thoughts and feelings. Not only should there be no amendment to ban the desecration of the flag, but it should be kept legal. Hear me out. As much as I love this country and the flag that represents its beautiful heritage, history, and patriotism, the builders of this country would disapprove of such an amendment. The act of burning the flag is an act of protest and dissent, which we are guaranteed under the First Amendment. It is not, what many are calling it, an act of sedition (which is still technically legal). If we take away a citizen's right to burn the flag, we are slowly chipping away the right to demonstrate, speak, or act in dissent or protest. This was a very difficult decision for me to make. That is why it is such an important decision. As much as it pains and enrages you when you see the flag being burned, it is important to make the choice to stand up for the rights of protest and legal dissent.

There was another argument that did not effect my decision in this matter, but gave me some food for thought: If you know who is burning the flag, you know who is against America.