Pledging Allegiance to the Flag

Figure 1: Patriotic Symbols

I'm sure that things happen in school everyday that could be considered patriotic. And I would also be willing to bet that there has been a time that you've questioned the meaning of the word Patriotism. 

As a student in the public school system, you probably say the pledge of allegiance at the beginning of every school day. I'm also willing to bet that at one point or another, you wondered why you had to do it, or if you really had to. 

Figure 2: Students Pledging Allegiance

Kids have been pledging their allegiance for decades in schools across America, and it's done so often that it just becomes another thing. This stands alone as the most patriotic act done in schools because for years it has been done over and over again. 

Saying the pledge has been a hot topic in recent history, and some people argue that it doesn't really do anything for you whereas others back it up saying it's one of the most important things we can teach kids. Believe it or not, the pledge has gone through numerous changes throughout its long and rich history.

The Pledge of Allegiance was first recognized by the United States Government in the year 1942, and only one year later there was a Supreme Court case regarding it being said in schools. The ruling in 1943 said that people would not be required to say the pledge because it was in violation of two amendments. So from 1943 on, while students were not technically obligated to say the pledge, the opportunity was almost always given to them.

Figure 3: The Religious Aspect

The problem with the pledge is that it sometimes does not relate to everyone. The phrase "under god" being included has also been an issue with the pledge in recent history. The bottom line there is that the phrase was deemed "patriotic" rather than religious. 

In the end, more than anything else, the Pledge of Allegiance helps kids learn to be obedient, and is a great way to display your patriotism. If you don't agree, that's fine too, you aren't required to do anything with it. There is no reason to be ashamed of anything you are for or against in school or life in general. 

Figure 4: Have Fun

You're a kid. You should be having fun, not being self-conscious about how patriotic you are.

References:

Pledge of allegiance fast facts. (2018, April 15). Retrieved from CNN website:
     https://www.cnn.com/2013/09/04/us/pledge-of-allegiance-fast-facts/index.html