We all have the right to pledge allegiance to our country without at the same time making a specific religious statement. It is also unconscionable to ask any American to remain silent while another American promotes their beliefs with governmental authority. This is as un-American as you can get.
We have a solution for this problem. A solution that unites ALL Americans
and respects the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.
The Pledge in use today, written by Francis Bellamy in 1892, was modified by the U.S. congress in 1954 by adding the words %u201Cunder God%u201D and in effect turning it into an unconstitutional public prayer. There are millions of Americans who believe in God but do not believe they are "under" God. Some find God within their own hearts while others believe they are part of --not under-- a divine power or sacred universe. Still others do not believe in God at all. The religious beliefs of these Americans are violated by our government, in schools, in public meetings, or anywhere the Pledge is recited. Because of a desire to avoid !st Amendment conflicts, many simply avoid reciting the Pledge.
At this time of needed national unity, we propose a compromise. Whether you consider yourself Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Buddhist, Hindu, Pagan, Atheist, Humanist, etc...., as Americans we all recognize that the strength of this country is based on its plurality of cultures and beliefs. True patriotism is not shown by how often you wave the flag or say the Pledge, but by the respect you accord the primary pillar of our democracy, the Constitution of the United States.
We ask the U.S. Congress to pass a resolution restoring the Pledge of Allegiance to its original wording, as recited by all Americans during WWII. A Pledge that can be recited by ALL Americans again, especially school children, and that will respect the First Amendment.
What can you do?
Contact your Congressional Representative and ask them to
restore the Pledge to its original pre-1954 form.
Comments, questions, and responses
are posted HERE
Send comments and questions to Rob Kirk at: rob.kirk@comcast.net
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