The Issues Surrounding the Pledge of Allegiance
By: Michael Young
College Now Course - BSS 1
Last week in California it was ruled that saying the Pledge of Allegiance in classrooms
is considered to be unconstitutional. This decision, according to the article, "could
put the decisive issue on track for another round of Supreme Court arguments." Although
I do understand why an atheist wouldn't want to be forced to recite the phrase, "under
God", I still believe the pledge shouldn't be banned from schools.
The Pledge of Allegiance had been around for ages and reciting it has been a public
school tradition for many years. I believe that if an individual chooses to opt out
of saying the Pledge of Allegiance, he or she has the right to do so. If saying the
term "under God" is contrary to one's beliefs, then it is not necessary that he or
she say it.
On the other hand, if the Pledge of Allegiance were to be revoked from the public
school system, it would cause just as much controversy. A number of traditionalists
would feel as if our national unity were sacrificed in favor of a select number of
atheists who feel they cannot recite the Pledge. There would also be a significant
number of religious people who consider the pledge to be a moment of prayer and reflection.
I believe that the Pledge of Allegiance should remain in the school system to maintain
the tradition and prevent any controversy, but each person should be able to decide
whether or not he or she wishes to recite the Pledge.
