This is a question that has been around since the 1980's. Now, I know for all of you free speech purists out there that the US Supreme Court has already ruled on this issue by declaring flag burning/desecration protected speech under the US Constitution. However, the issue doesn't stop there. We the people have the ability to amend the Constitution to make flag desecration illegal. Should we?
Clearly, the prohibition of flag burning is meant to stifle a person's expression... an expression of dislike, anger or even hatred of the United States and/or its policies. That does counter our founders' intentions when enacting the Bill of Rights. Plus, the proper disposal of a flag is by burning it! I'm sure that any prohibition would provide an exception for flag disposal, which shines the spotlight even more on the real motives behind making it illegal.
However, so many men and women have died fighting for that flag and the ideals it represents. Can't we have one sacred symbol of this country that is so revered, so important that we all stand up and say "no, you can't desecrate it"?
Look, I understand the legal arguments behind the court's refusal to allow the prohibition of flag desecration, but I also understand the emotional arguments behind those that support such a ban. Sometimes emotions should prevail and I think this is one situation where they should.
Your thoughts?
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
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