Flag-Burning Amendment One Vote From Passage
Flag-Burning Amendment One Vote From Passage
The U.S. Senate is one vote away from passing a constitutional amendment that would criminalize desecration of the U.S. flag.
If successful, it will mark the first time in 214 years that the Bill of Rights has been restricted by a constitutional amendment, and will place the United States among a select group of nations that have banned flag desecration, including Cuba, China, Iran, and Iraq under Saddam Hussein. Three reasons to oppose the flag amendment:
– Flag burning is a non-problem: As Sen. Robert Bennett (R-UT) has said, “I don’t want to amend the Constitution to solve a non-problem. People are not burning the flag.” One study found just 45 reported incidents in the over 200 years between 1777 and 1989, when the Flag Protection Act was first passed.
– Flag burning is protected speech: The Supreme Court has twice ruled that destruction of the flag for political purposes, although highly offensive to most Americans, is undeniably a political statement and a political expression.
– Amendment is vaguely worded: The amendment is “phrased in such broad and vague language” that it could could include censorship of images of the flag in works of art, advertising, or commerce. Last week, the Senate spent time debating whether “wearing a very skimpy bathing suit†decorated with the flag’s stars and stripes would constitute desecration.
Now, aided by a handful of Democrats, the amendment has gathered 66 votes in favor, just one shy of passage. “Whether advocates can find the 67th vote to send the flag amendment to the states for ratification remains unclear.”
ThinkProgress has compiled a list of veterans, including former Secretary of State Colin Powell, who have offered their opposition to the flag burning amendment. See it HERE.
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I’m ashamed to say that Senator Dianne Feinstein voted in favor of the amendment. What a jerk she is.
June 19th, 2006 at 4:16 pmI keep looking for Nero, can anyone hear the fiddle?
June 19th, 2006 at 4:19 pmOne study found just 45 reported incidents in the over 200 years between 1777 and 1989, when the Flag Protection Act was first passed.
I think if the people who want to ban flag burning spoke the truth, what they truly want is to ban people in other countries from burning our flag
June 19th, 2006 at 4:20 pmIf it passes, just look at the company we’ll be included with. Not exactly a freedom loving group.
June 19th, 2006 at 4:21 pmSo the Republicans and the handful of idiot Dems are prepared to arrest, charge and convict a U.S. soldier who paints a flag on a bomb that will be dropped because they know that that flag will be destoyed. If you read the way the Flag Protection Act was written you could argue that could happen. Scary and stupid. Waste of time and effort.
June 19th, 2006 at 4:27 pmThe idea of a Constitutional Amendment to ban flag burning INFURIATES me. The First Amendment guarantees freedom of speech, which I define in the most liberal fashion as a symbolic expression of one’s views. Anyone who is willing to support such an amendment is willing to sacrifice the very “fabric” of our republic, the foundation of our “government of the people”. I wonder, if someone created a digital flag on a website and then digitally “burned” it in protest of this proposed amendment, would that qualify as “flag burning”?
June 19th, 2006 at 4:28 pmOne study found just 45 reported incidents in the over 200 years between 1777 and 1989
Uh huh. And when this passes, I want an Amendment To Prevent People From Sleeping On Blue Sedans (safety!), an Amendment to Keep Red Haired People from Mating With Mexicans (oh, the genetics!), and an Amendment That All Quicki Marts Serve Hi-C (damn that caffeine!).
All of these things, of course, are very important to our country.
June 19th, 2006 at 4:29 pmIf you pass it we will burn it.
June 19th, 2006 at 4:29 pmSo If I Burn my Flag and bury the ashes to properly dispose of it, I’d be viloatoing the Constitution?
June 19th, 2006 at 4:30 pm…
War in IRAQ, N. Korea about to test a Missile, Terrorisms, etc and they’re concerned about this??
How about a soldier killed in action who wants to be cremated in his uniform, which has an American flag sown on it?
June 19th, 2006 at 4:30 pmLast week, the Senate spent time debating whether “wearing a very skimpy bathing suit†decorated with the flag’s stars and stripes would constitute desecration. - - Jessica Alba:No. Rosie O’Donnell:Yes.
June 19th, 2006 at 4:30 pmgive me a break! god these polick0-ti-cians drive me crazy! the dems are so freaking stupid. why haven’t they picked up their books and walked the hell out of the building!
June 19th, 2006 at 4:34 pmGilligan’s Island ‘06
Starring Reid as “Gilligan” and Murtha as “The Skipper”.
How does CAP get up in the morning knowing the losers they propagate?
June 19th, 2006 at 4:35 pmSo if a guy with a pick-up has his back window tinted with the flag and someone hits him then that person can be arrested not only for the accident but for desicrating the flag? Or during a 4th of July cook out if my uncle John wipes his mouth with a “flag” napkin I am obligated to turn him into the Feds?
June 19th, 2006 at 4:35 pmI just have to say from a heterosexual guy point of view, Jessica Alba in a skimpy bathing suit is A-ok.
June 19th, 2006 at 4:35 pmScary shit. I can’t believe this is what our congress has decided is a pressing issue. The climate of fear continues in our government.
June 19th, 2006 at 4:35 pmStayin’ Home in ‘06!
June 19th, 2006 at 4:37 pmIf the SC has already ruled on this, then it only goes to show you what the Senate thinks of that institution.
June 19th, 2006 at 4:40 pmthe republicans better slow down, or they are going to run out of wedge issues. they have already chewed up gay marriage, I guess abortion is next?
June 19th, 2006 at 4:40 pmI would never dream of burning an American flag i would rather wipe my arse with it
June 19th, 2006 at 4:41 pmWhat about Jessica Tandy in a skimpy bathing suit? Talk about hot.
June 19th, 2006 at 4:41 pmNo more eating American flag cakes and cookies…
No more Viking funerals, no matter how much one would want it, for people with American flag tattoos…
June 19th, 2006 at 4:42 pmGilligan’s Island ‘06
Starring Reid as “Gilligan†and Murtha as “The Skipperâ€.
Comment by Jose’s Wheel and OBGYN $5 tire repair and pap — June 19, 2006 @ 4:35 pm
And Dick Cheney as Thurston Howell III, bugging out on “a three hour tour” with his ill-gotten gains (and copies of his wife’s lesbian love story)hidden in his steamer trunk.
June 19th, 2006 at 4:42 pmThis Jessica Alba, skimpy bathing suit scenario has some tough legal ramifications. For instance, if it’s ok for her to wear the suit, would it then be considered desecrating the flag if she wore it while having a mud-wrestling fight? I could see this going up to the Supreme Court where they’d have to go to a mud-wrestling match for an eyewitness account. Scalia would probably invite Cheney. And his daughter.
June 19th, 2006 at 4:43 pmLeisureGuy wrote, “I’m ashamed to say that Senator Dianne Feinstein voted in favor of the amendment. What a jerk she is.”
I’d be a lot more ashamed in knowing that Fienstein’s hubby has made tons of dough off the “war on terror.” No wonder she has consistently voted for more taxpayer money to be given with virtually no oversight or bidding by the “rebuild Iraq” corporations who are really raping taxpayers. LeisureGuy, have you seen her palatial estate she and the hubby call their “humble abode”??
June 19th, 2006 at 4:44 pmWhat about Jessica Tandy in a skimpy bathing suit? Talk about hot.
Comment by Wilco
This isn’t a necrophilia thread is it?
June 19th, 2006 at 4:44 pmThe linked article is a week old. What’s the news here?
June 19th, 2006 at 4:45 pm#24 - Badmoodman & Krazny, I think you two should spend hours and hours visualizing every conceivable scenario in which Jessica Alba could possibly desecrate her tiny American flag bathing suit. It’s important to the future of this country, and you guys just need to force yourselves to do this. ;)
June 19th, 2006 at 4:46 pmI wrote “knowing that Fienstein’s hubby”
maybe that should have been “fine liarstein”
June 19th, 2006 at 4:48 pm“Republicans in the Senate have announced they are moving on from gay marriage … to a constitutional amendment to ban flag burning. … We would join the only three other countries who have banned flag burning: China, Cuba and Iran. We can stand with our brothers on this issue.” - Jay Leno
June 19th, 2006 at 4:49 pmOr during a 4th of July cook out if my uncle John wipes his mouth with a “flag†napkin I am obligated to turn him into the Feds?
Comment by dlet — June 19, 2006 @ 4:35 pm
You’re hilarious!
So, how many “senators” (I am using the term loosely left to vote? Any Repugnicants left or just Dems?
I genuinely cannot believe this is happening in America…
June 19th, 2006 at 4:49 pmThe editorial staff of our local paper wrote an opinion column last week that pretty much boiled it down to this: how dare anyone burn a piece of cloth that so many people fought to protect in wars past.
Gosh…I thought they were protecting the ideals that the piece of cloth stood for, and not a material thing. When people burn the flag, they are not protesting the cloth it’s printed on…they are protesting America. So in effect, our politicians are banning protest of our government. How Bushovian.
June 19th, 2006 at 4:50 pmI propose a new amendment to the Constitution to stop people from painting the flag with purple elephants on Thursdays! Sorely needed. It’s about time we enacted a pre-emptive amendment to save our country from this eminent danger.
June 19th, 2006 at 4:50 pmI’ll be happy to burn an American flag to save it’s freedoms; whose with me?
June 19th, 2006 at 4:52 pm#33 - Shit, Solitaire! That was the only reason I ever got up on Thursdays…
June 19th, 2006 at 4:53 pm#33 “… save our country from this eminent danger”
Reminds me of Niles Fraser’s remark “My brother was already eminent when I was merely imminent.”
June 19th, 2006 at 4:55 pmSince burning a flag is the only proper way of disposing of one that is no longer servicable, I think we’ll see lots of carefully-timed ‘disposals’ in the near future.
‘Land of the free…” my ass!
June 19th, 2006 at 4:55 pmthe republicans better slow down, or they are going to run out of wedge issues. they have already chewed up gay marriage, I guess abortion is next?
Comment by Krazny — June 19, 2006 @ 4:40 pm
There’s still some mileage left in gay marriage, apparently. The House of Reps are going to bring it up next month, and I understand Frist said he wasn’t done with it yet, either.
June 19th, 2006 at 4:55 pmI always thought that the pledge of allegiance should read…
I pledge allegiance to the Republic of the United States and the Flag for which it stands…
I had an argument with my stepson once where he didn’t seem to understand my point (that the flag is just a piece of cloth) but instead got very upset by it.
Coming from a country where the national symbol is significantly older, I find it very strange. Back home, the flag is a piece of cloth. You can burn the flag as much as you want… Just don’t try and burn the country…
Z.
June 19th, 2006 at 4:57 pmI’ll be happy to burn an American flag to save it’s freedoms; whose with me?
Comment by Xbot
I’m with you, Xbot, I’ll bring the matches, you bring the bandaids.
June 19th, 2006 at 4:58 pmROFLMAO Zoo,
I will leave that type of thing to horny teenage boys I think.
I was thinking though, wouldn’t this negatively effect the flag making industry? after all someone has to make the flags that are burned.
June 19th, 2006 at 4:59 pmWhile I am fully against this change as flag burning should be protected under free speech, I wonder why Religon doesn’t share those same views. Just today:
http://www.reviewjournal.com/ lvrj_home/ 2006/ Jun-17-Sat-2006/ news/ 8014416.html
Free sheech should cut both ways. Both parties need to give this crap a rest.
June 19th, 2006 at 4:59 pmTo #34 Xbot Passage of such an amendment would make me into a flag-burner to protest. I’m with you - let’s make sure we have the ACLU with us! We’ll have to make sure we don’t violate any other local laws, like open container burning, to confuse the issues and give a lesser crime to really convict us on. But I’d sure love to mess with the law - is a paper flag an American flag? is a flag with only 47 stars or only 10 stripes? how about a magic trick with the illusion of a burning flag (i.e. a West Wing episode)? how about the word “FLAG” in red, white, and blue print? This amendment would be a judicial nightmare.
June 19th, 2006 at 5:00 pmI feel as if I’m watching a very expensive circus that a barrel of monkeys has taken posession of…
June 19th, 2006 at 5:00 pmWelcome to the Censored States of America…
June 19th, 2006 at 5:00 pmHypothetically speaking, would a large photo of a burning flag used as a means of protest be considered a violation of this statute?
June 19th, 2006 at 5:02 pmSo if I burn the Image of America, printed upon a flag that was really made in Korea, would that be illegal in Korea, or in the United States? Or Both? or Neither?
June 19th, 2006 at 5:03 pmHey there Californians, Dianne Feinstein is making a mistake. If you are one of her constituents, please let her know that her support of this does not adequately represent you.
Senator Dianne Feinstein
331 HART SENATE OFFICE BUILDING
WASHINGTON DC 20510
P:(202) 224-3841
f:(202) 228-3954
Please send a fax or letter. The email form is a quick an easy way to be ignored. Write the letter yourself–the canned ones merit canned responses.
June 19th, 2006 at 5:04 pmO’er the laaaand of the [censored], and the home of the [scared sh*tless].
That rumbling sound that seems to be eminating from the ground beneath your feet? Well, that’s your founders fathers and your citizens who gave their lives for your freedoms rolling in their graves.
June 19th, 2006 at 5:04 pmWhat if I burn a dollar bill? If I burn my car, because it pissed me off, Am I not just burning my money? And If I burn a flag, made in Korea, just like that crappy car I burned, I burned an American Flag? Really I just pieces of gottdurn paper right? Promissory notes? If I burn a picture of George Bush, that I bought, is it not mine? Can I or can I not burn my Picture?
June 19th, 2006 at 5:06 pmPer the USA Today article, the vote is scheduled for the week of July 26th.
Two points from the article:
For now, enough senators — including three Republicans — remain opposed to the flag amendment to keep it from getting to the states. Sen. Robert Bennett of Utah wants to write a law instead of rewriting the Constitution. Majority Whip Mitch McConnell of Kentucky objects to altering the First Amendment. Lincoln Chafee of Rhode Island also voted no in 2000.
Anyone in the 3 states above…please contact your senator and express your views.
Despite ads by the Citizens Flag Alliance urging his support, Sen. Kent Conrad, D-N.D., has no plans to vote yes and does not believe his re-election will be affected. Says spokesman Chris Thorne: “This is not an issue that people are talking to us about.”
I’d say this is the case with a majority of senators. Other than the deal with port security, can anyone recall a time when our representatives got on national TV and told of their offices being bombarded with calls from constituents?
June 19th, 2006 at 5:07 pmWhat if I want to express my freedom of speech at school by talking about God, oh wait I already can’t :(
June 19th, 2006 at 5:08 pmIronic that on a post about free speech, I find myself blocked again by TP from my main IP address. Unless I see a satisfactory reason from TP or reinstatement, this is my last post. I will move to a location where the free flow of ideas and criticism of BOTH sides of the us spectrum may be permitted.
June 19th, 2006 at 5:09 pmI will only be diverted this once. Jerard she can say anything she wants about god. If she wants to preach in her church, on a street corner, in the park wherever. What is being censored, is her proselytizing to a group of people, some of whom may not share her religious beliefs, at an event payed for with taxpayer money. the government will not establish a religion. A simple I thank god, my family etc, was perfectly acceptable to the school. This young lady instead chose to take a high path. If she wished to expuond on god in her commencement speach, she should have gone to a private religious school.
Remember seperation of Church and State.
June 19th, 2006 at 5:10 pmWhat if I want to express my freedom of speech at school by talking about God, oh wait I already can’t :(
Comment by Jerad — June 19, 2006 @ 5:08 pm
That is untrue. You can talk about God all you want in your free time. Just don’t do it while I am teaching!!!
June 19th, 2006 at 5:11 pmI’m with you, Xbot, I’ll bring the matches, you bring the bandaids.
Comment by Zookeeper — June 19, 2006 @ 4:58 pm
For my part, I think I’m going to go buy a pack of flag napkins, remove 2 from the pack, burn half of each one, and send one to each of my senators, Bill Frist and Lamar Alexander, via snail mail.
I plan to include a note with my name and address, put my fingerprints all over it and the envelope, and include this one simple message:
“Bring it on!!!”
It’ll be a modern day Boston Tea Party.
June 19th, 2006 at 5:12 pmWhat a pathetic waste of time and taxpayer money. If they really want to respect the flag, let’s start enforcing the U.S. Flag Code:
# (d) The flag should never be used as wearing apparel, bedding, or drapery.
# (e) The flag should never be fastened, displayed, used, or stored in such a manner as to permit it to be easily torn, soiled, or damaged in any way.
# (h) The flag should never be used as a receptacle for receiving, holding, carrying, or delivering anything.
# (i) The flag should never be used for advertising purposes in any manner whatsoever. It should not be embroidered on such articles as cushions or handkerchiefs and the like, printed or otherwise impressed on paper napkins or boxes or anything that is designed for temporary use and discard.
# (j) No part of the flag should ever be used as a costume or athletic uniform.
There’s a lot more. I particularly like the part about the $100 fine and/or 30 day prison sentence for anyone who uses the flag for advertising purposes. Let’s start enforcing the existing laws before passing unnecessary new ones.
June 19th, 2006 at 5:12 pm#51
Correction…vote is scheduled for week of June 26th.
June 19th, 2006 at 5:12 pmWell, Zookeeper, don’t bother getting up at all, because the flow of amendments for political grandstanding is likely to increase exponentially if this one passes.
June 19th, 2006 at 5:12 pmSoon you will find yourself hedged in on all sides by Constitutional mandates for a red-white-and-blue halo around your snoozing nose morning, noon, and night.
What if I want to express my freedom of speech at school by talking about God, oh wait I already can’t :(
Name your God. Only about 350 of them.
June 19th, 2006 at 5:13 pmBut I suppose we should start the school day with a prayer to all of them. 7 hrs later, prayer is finally done..and it’s time to go home. I understand that people have beliefs [350+] but public school would become a church and not an institute of education.
Remember seperation of Church and State.
Comment by Krazny — June 19, 2006 @ 5:10 pm
I’m sure that attachement Amendment is in the works… And the point at which I leave.
June 19th, 2006 at 5:14 pm#52 Jerad If you’re a STUDENT, you can talk about God in school, providing you’re not interrupting the educational process. If you are a TEACHER, what you can’t do is use the power of your position, as a government employee, to promote a religious view, which would probably pre-empt you sharing your personal views. As a Christian parent, I did not want my daughter’s religious views influenced by any teacher as I knew that some of her teachers had views I did not approve. Honor thy mother and father, you know.
June 19th, 2006 at 5:14 pmunfortunately, this is a hot topic in may area, as just last thursday a 19yr old kid was arrested for burning a flag in front of the courthouse… the states attorney is “reviewing the case at this time and has not yet made a decision as to charges”… should be interesting in this red zone…
fortunately, another National Guard unit made it home from iraq on saturday, so that put the dummy’s flag stunt on the back burner…
more details as become available…
June 19th, 2006 at 5:14 pmJust don’t do it while I am teaching!!!
Comment by Jules — June 19, 2006 @ 5:11 pm
Hey - you’re back! How as the road trip?
June 19th, 2006 at 5:16 pmWhat if I want to express my freedom of speech at school by talking about God, oh wait I already can’t :(
Comment by Jerad — June 19, 2006 @ 5:08 pm
And what if I want to stand up in the middle of math class and profess my love for the 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air? Oh wait…I can’t.
June 19th, 2006 at 5:16 pmWhat if I want to express my freedom of speech at school by talking about God, oh wait I already can’t :(
Comment by Jerad — June 19, 2006 @ 5:08 pm
What about my right not to hear about it? Jesus said your religion is supposed to be a private matter. Smartest thing the man said. Unfortunately, not enough people listening.
June 19th, 2006 at 5:18 pmWhat a collosal waste of time, and what a great disrepect to protected speech. Hell with energy policy, hell with the war in Iraq, hell with New Orleans, our big problems are Gay Marriage and Flag Burning!
June 19th, 2006 at 5:18 pm#57
Greg,
Great post! This would be excellent info to send to our elected representatives.
June 19th, 2006 at 5:19 pmIt’ll be a modern day Boston Tea Party.
Comment by WC
I think I’ll do that, too. Mine are Sen Craig & Sen Crapo — I’ll probably be arrested. ;)
June 19th, 2006 at 5:20 pmHey - you’re back! How as the road trip?
Comment by unbelievable — June 19, 2006 @ 5:16 pm
It was great!! We drove a total of 4,228 miles. My daughter loved Boston so much she is checking out colleges up there.
June 19th, 2006 at 5:20 pmCome on folks, the Republican base wants prayer in school.
June 19th, 2006 at 5:21 pmI say then we pray to every known name of GOD, and to every religion before school starts…
–then when we say one “Nation under GOD” we will be talking about one of the many GODs that exist in this world.
Zookeeper: “…visualizing every conceivable scenario in which Jessica Alba could possibly desecrate her tiny American flag bathing suit. . . .{Y}ou guys just need to force yourselves to do this. ;)
June 19th, 2006 at 5:22 pm- - Wait, doesn’t that mean we’re crossing over into that other blog about “forced masturbation”? Not that this is a deal-killer or anything.
Soon you will find yourself hedged in on all sides by Constitutional mandates for a red-white-and-blue halo around your snoozing nose morning, noon, and night.
Comment by Solitaire
I’m feeling claustrophobic already…and just a teeny bit paranoid.
June 19th, 2006 at 5:22 pm“Hey, buddy! My daddy died for that flag!”
“Really? I bought mine. They sell ‘em in K-Mart…”
Man, we need another Bill Hicks!
June 19th, 2006 at 5:24 pmWhy is it that Heath Ledger in a flag designed speedo doesn’t do the same for me as a flag designed bikini on Jessica Alba does to you guys?
June 19th, 2006 at 5:24 pmif you must burn the flag please wrap yourself in it first!
June 19th, 2006 at 5:25 pmMore crap for the house and senate to use up their 97 day’s in session…..The worst administration in our history, combined with stupid, lazy, bloated house and senate members wasting time on a flag amendment when they should be concerned with saving another service persons life, getting our southern states ready for hurricane season and the thousands of neglected and chopped up bills that need fixing……..The government run by big business, foreign investors, suposid bible thumpers and a super greedy administration……Keep the public busy with made up lies and use up time on nothingness…….Good post all the above.
June 19th, 2006 at 5:25 pmvisualizing every conceivable scenario in which Jessica Alba could possibly desecrate her tiny American flag bathing suit.
O my GOD, that American Symbol runs right across and thru her anal area. That woman is literally rubbing her butt on the flag!!
Ok, so shes young and you don’t care, but what if Karl Turd Blossom Rove was wearing it?
June 19th, 2006 at 5:26 pmPtooh Ptoooh!! Imprison that MAN!!
#
Why is it that Heath Ledger in a flag designed speedo doesn’t do the same for me as a flag designed bikini on Jessica Alba does to you guys?
Comment by Jules — June 19, 2006 @ 5:24 pm
I know a few chicks who would be real happy with that idea.
June 19th, 2006 at 5:26 pmIt was great!! We drove a total of 4,228 miles. My daughter loved Boston so much she is checking out colleges up there.
Comment by Jules — June 19, 2006 @ 5:20 pm
Details…. What’s you see.
Glad you had fun. Was a good time to be away. Trolls in high-obnoxious mode.
You should have her go visit again in February to be certain :)
June 19th, 2006 at 5:26 pmNot that this is a deal-killer or anything.
Comment by Badmoodman
I can tell you’re putting a lot of thought into this task.
June 19th, 2006 at 5:28 pmWhatever works, sweetness!
I think I’ll do that, too. Mine are Sen Craig & Sen Crapo — I’ll probably be arrested. ;)
Comment by Zookeeper — June 19, 2006 @ 5:20 pm
Same here, but with our luck it wouldn’t be for burning a “flag.” I can just see Frist twisting something like this into a threat on his life, the suggestion being that I’m going to burn his house down or something.
June 19th, 2006 at 5:29 pmThat is alot miles Jules.
June 19th, 2006 at 5:32 pmhow did you keep from going crazy?
#82 - Those were my thoughts too, WC. What the hell, I’m doing it anyway. Send me a carrot cake with a file in it…
June 19th, 2006 at 5:34 pmThis young girl was not interupting class in one way to prefess her faith. He became tops in her class GPA wise which gave her the right to speak at comencement. Wether her 750 word speech was about math or god, it doesnt matter since it could take the same length regardless. It is pure crap that they won’t let this poor young girl exercise her right to free speech in a place that doesn’t interupt from class time. Flag burning is the same issue, free speech.
It is like being for the death penalty and being against abortion. Both are needless murder and both are wrong. I guess both sides can speak illogical when it comes to social issues.
June 19th, 2006 at 5:34 pmJerad,
Wrong site buddy… check out http://www.redstate.org It’s more your speed.
Besides, you are supposed to avoid non-believers. Hanging out in here are many non-religious folks. n fact, I am an Atheist. Better run away!
June 19th, 2006 at 5:37 pmStupid, stupid, stupid.
June 19th, 2006 at 5:40 pmAccepted rules for destroying the flag - burning or burying.
What about cakes decorated as the flag which get eaten?
What about clothing that gets used as car wash rags?
In the past flag burning has been outlawed by those who deny freedom of speech: dictators of Cuba, Nazi Germany, etc. We are close to joining their ranks.
Why not? Bush has already removed so many freedoms we thought were guaranteed under the Constitution, he has already defiled the Constitution with his unique interpretation of the law, supported by his appointed sycophantic judges and attorneys. What’s one more freedome along the way?
Freedom of speech might still available - if you get permission first.
Yay Jules! Welcome back! That was a shit load of miles you drove. I find it’s easy to drive a lot when I’ve got my babies to talk to. Whoever invented the VCR player in the car must not have liked their kids much.
June 19th, 2006 at 5:41 pmThere ain’t nothing wrong with this:
http://www.bikini-beach.com/bikinijoes6.htm
or this
http://partygirlusa.com/swimwear.htm
There is no better way to display your patriotism.
June 19th, 2006 at 5:46 pmYou should have her go visit again in February to be certain :)
Comment by unbelievable — June 19, 2006 @ 5:26 pm
My sister wants my daughter to visit her this winter. I am unsure how well she will do. She says she hates cold weather but she has never really lived in an area that has cold weather.
That is alot miles Jules.
how did you keep from going crazy?
Comment by Krazny — June 19, 2006 @ 5:32 pm
We stopped a lot. We went to Memphis to see Graceland. It was pretty cool. I never realized how young Elvis was when he died. I thought he was an old man. He was only 42!!! Then we went to the Biltmore Estate. That was so awesome. I cannot even imagine living in a 250 room house. Then we went to WV (relatives). I would not recommend driving in eastern WV if you so not need to. My daughter was so tired of mountains she swore she would never complain about Texas again (but I am quite sure she will). We ended up in Boston for a week and went to a Sox game. They were playing Texas which was cool. We had awesome seats my bro-in-law got for us. Had some drunk bostonians surrounding us (is that an oxymoron?) which was even more fun.
However, in all of our travels neither we, nor anyone we met along the way, burned even one flag!!! Is it considered a real vacation if you do not burn a flag?
June 19th, 2006 at 5:49 pmIs it considered a real vacation if you do not burn a flag?
Comment by Jules — June 19, 2006 @ 5:49 pm
Nope - get back on the road! :)
Sounds like a good trip! Glad you had a good time! Welcome back!
June 19th, 2006 at 5:53 pmMan I would love to hit Fenway for a game. but truth be told I would love to do the MLB park tour and hit all 60 stadiums.
If you daughter is not used to the cold, Boston could be a hell of a shock in the winter. LOL When my wife and I first moved to SoCal from Seattle we would see people wearing long sleeve shirts and sweaters when the temps were in the 60’s. We on the other hand would be in jeans and t-shirts. guess its all relative.
June 19th, 2006 at 5:57 pmThink Progress again peddles an inaccurate list of countries that ban flag desecration.
Norway has a law in place banning desecrating the flags of foreign nations. Why aren’t they on Think Progress’ list? Ah, because it’s not convenient.
I don’t support any amendment to outlaw burning flags, but I think Think Progress should stop misleading their readers by purposefully omitting information I have long since made them aware of.
June 19th, 2006 at 5:58 pmWhoever invented the VCR player in the car must not have liked their kids much.
Comment by Zookeeper — June 19, 2006 @ 5:41 pm
We packed so many clothes we did not have room for the portable VCR. We wouldn’t have used it anyway. We were making up songs and making fun of “stuff” all along the way.
June 19th, 2006 at 6:03 pmMan I would love to hit Fenway for a game. but truth be told I would love to do the MLB park tour and hit all 60 stadiums
Comment by Krazny — June 19, 2006 @ 5:57 pm
Fenway is awesome. That was the first ball park I ever went to. They want to build a new stadium, and they really need it, but it will never be the same!
I got this great t-shirt….it says “CHOKE…the official soft drink of the yankees.”
June 19th, 2006 at 6:09 pmI got this great t-shirt….it says “CHOKE…the official soft drink of the yankees.â€
Comment by Jules — June 19, 2006 @ 6:09 pm
LOL I want one. Sounds like fun.
In response to Seixon, I noticed that the law you bring up applies to foreign flags. Does it also apply to Norway’s flag? If it doesn’t then the list of countries provided by TP would stand if one were to read that these countries outlaw burning of its national flag. However if it is illegal to desecrate the norwegian flag, then Norway would need to be added to the list already mentioned by TP.
If I remember correctly this is not the first time the US under the Bush admin has been lumped into some unsavory company. The use of capitol punishment is used pretty much only in regressive third world countries.
June 19th, 2006 at 6:14 pm“and will place the United States among a select group of nations that have banned flag desecration, including Cuba, China, Iran, and Iraq under Saddam Hussein.”
Does not say ‘limted to’ or ‘only’…
June 19th, 2006 at 6:14 pmNorway has a law in place banning desecrating the flags of foreign nations. Why aren’t they on Think Progress’ list? Ah, because it’s not convenient.
Comment by Seixon
I know you are not this thick headed … your just being asinine.
The WHOLE point to being against this flag burning crap is because of the nazistic nationalistic selfish egotistical mentality it encourages… Norway having a law that respect OTHER PEOPLES flags is the exact opposite of egotistical nationalism…
but of coarse you knew that didnt you…
June 19th, 2006 at 6:16 pmgive me a break! god these polick0-ti-cians drive me crazy! the dems are so freaking stupid. why haven’t they picked up their books and walked the hell out of the building!
Comment by hotfroggy+
Exactly why I am in no mood to vote for them. I should have been listening to the antiDemocrat antiRepublicans along time ago.
June 19th, 2006 at 6:19 pmFirst, I am as nutty a righ-winger as most of you in here are nutty lefties. Most every time I come in here I read all sorts of crazy lefty crap. I must, however, (gulp) agree with you nutty libs on this one. What purpose does this serve? Why waste so much time, effort, and energy on such a non-issue? As bad as I hate to say it, the nutty libs should win on this one.
June 19th, 2006 at 6:21 pmThe Achille’s heel of the Democrats is indecision. Democrats are willing to listen to diverse opinions, which has been spun into a weakness. Rather than using that as an asset, the Demos have digressed to a pre-feminist macho-female submissive role. Rather than advocating the issues of its constituents, the demos attempt to mollify the undecided, then the wavering, then the weak repugs, then whoever will give money. Where is the soul of the Democratic Party? The DLC (Democrats Lacking Courage) has preached such a strategy, “pretend you are Republicans and you might get elected.”
I say this as a 4-term Democratic legislator, not as an outsider.
People don’t vote Democrat because of the issues, but because Democrats no longer have soul … and courage.
Jim Lendall
June 19th, 2006 at 6:38 pmCandidate for Governor of Arkansas
Green Party of Arkansas
jimlendall2006.com
As bad as I hate to say it, the nutty libs should win on this one.
Comment by Stubain
Wow. Thanks for saying that. It must have been hard for you to do it, and you could have left it unsaid, but you didn’t. Cool…
June 19th, 2006 at 6:43 pmWould it be ok for Andrew Sullivan to get married to James West and then they could burn the flag at the wedding ceremony? Cake and flowers at the wedding from liberated Iraqis would be highlighted on the running banner on Fix News.
they could then violate two potential amendments at the same time and yet remain ‘Republicans.’
Michael Huffington could be the best man and Ann Coulter could frag John Murtha while he has his hand over his heart reciting the pledge of allegiance.
The God-fearing *ahem* right would be all aflutter with giddy joy.
June 19th, 2006 at 6:52 pmI spent a year fighting in Iraq for our freedom (so I am told) and now the very people who sent me there are trying to restrict it.
How is it that veterans are running around telling people that their unpopular ideas have been protected by them and they should be quiest because of it, but miss the point that freedom of speech is what makes this country great. If they want to lie to me and tell me I was over there fighting for our freedom, then I want it on the record that I fought for the rights of people everywhere in America to burn the flag, to criticize the government, and speak their minds.
June 19th, 2006 at 7:02 pmFine, whatever, can’t burn the Flag.
Now can we get back to more important stuff?
June 19th, 2006 at 7:10 pmIn regards to those 66 voters, their “Turds” were beginning to “touch cloth”, and they needed a way to keep the fire from roasting their asses.
June 19th, 2006 at 7:13 pmwhile i am patriotic and love America, I too agree there are much more imprtant issues right now.
June 19th, 2006 at 7:23 pm#1 just might be North Korea testing a missile than can oh say reach seattle or anchorage!!!!!
I fought for the rights of people everywhere in America to burn the flag, to criticize the government, and speak their minds.
Comment by SGT Al — June 19, 2006 @ 7:02 pm
Thank you. I truly appreciate that, as well as your courage. And I am deeply sorry that this regime took advantage of your bravery and patriotism.
I hope you stay safe and come home soon. A day doesn’t go by that we don’t think of you all and wish we could do more to get you home.
June 19th, 2006 at 7:26 pmInstead of burning flags, burn fascist neo-nazi Republicans.
June 19th, 2006 at 7:51 pmI have but one thing to say:
“I would prefer that someone burn the flag and wrap themselves in the Constitution, than burn the Constitution and wrap themselves in the flag.”
June 19th, 2006 at 8:54 pmIf they want to lie to me and tell me I was over there fighting for our freedom, then I want it on the record that I fought for the rights of people everywhere in America to burn the flag, to criticize the government, and speak their minds.
Comment by SGT Al
Thank you for your service, Sgt. Al, I’m so happy you came home safely. I hope we can get the rest of the troops home ASAP.
June 19th, 2006 at 9:07 pmHow very interesting… burning itself is mentioned nowhere other than in the “legitimate disposal” section of the code. Nor is it mention in Title 4, Chapter 1, Paragraph 3 (mutiliation within DC bounds).
June 19th, 2006 at 9:24 pmWell isn’t this nice.
Pass a law making it illegal to peacefully protest the flag, which is supposed to represent the right for us to peacefully protest.
Glad my dad fought in WW2 for that.
June 19th, 2006 at 9:33 pmSo now the cloth itself, is more important than the freedoms it represents?
Outstanding.
June 19th, 2006 at 9:34 pmYou know what the real irony is here? The real hubris of this bill?
Just ask any boyscout, and he’ll tell you.
The primary accepted “respectful” method of disposing of a US Flag, is by “burning it”.
Ironic isn’t it?
June 19th, 2006 at 9:37 pmJune 19th, 2006 at 9:39 pm
So lemme see if I can get my head around this.
While 2500 soldiers lie dead, another 10,000 are bloodied and cleaved, 100,000 Iraqi’s are dead, millions displaced and their country in ruins, Iran beating the Nuclear drum along with North Korea, ole Bill Frist and the Backstreet Boys want to make a law, that makes it illegal to follow another law???
Cool.
June 19th, 2006 at 9:42 pmDoes anybody have the list of 14 Democrats supporting this? USA Today mentions Reid and Feinstein. Who else needs to be hammered by their constituents before this gets to the floor?
June 19th, 2006 at 9:43 pmAnd I couldn’t help notice that Greg in comment #57 posted he left out item “k”.
(k) The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning
United States Flag Code Chapter 10 Section 176 “Respect for the Flag” under “PATRIOTIC CUSTOMS”.
June 19th, 2006 at 9:46 pmSo if the US Flag Code, says its not only RESPECTFUL to BURN the flag, but its also PATRIOTIC, then how did this bill ever make it to the floor???
Just curious, you know?
Oh and if they pass the law, then won’t they also have to REPEAL item K from the US Flag Code???
I mean, if they don’t you’re sort of damned if you do, and damned if you don’t, if you get my meaning.
June 19th, 2006 at 9:49 pmI mean, if they don’t you’re sort of damned if you do, and damned if you don’t, if you get my meaning.
Comment by FLAVIUS `WORFEUS
Details, schmetails…Flavius why do you hate America? You’re just confusing the issue with facts.
June 19th, 2006 at 10:02 pm/sarcasm off
In response to Seixon, I noticed that the law you bring up applies to foreign flags. Does it also apply to Norway’s flag? If it doesn’t then the list of countries provided by TP would stand if one were to read that these countries outlaw burning of its national flag. However if it is illegal to desecrate the norwegian flag, then Norway would need to be added to the list already mentioned by TP.
If I remember correctly this is not the first time the US under the Bush admin has been lumped into some unsavory company. The use of capitol punishment is used pretty much only in regressive third world countries.
Comment by Krazny — June 19, 2006 @ 6:14 pm
“and will place the United States among a select group of nations that have banned flag desecration, including Cuba, China, Iran, and Iraq under Saddam Hussein.â€
Does not say ‘limted to’ or ‘only’…
Comment by unbelievable — June 19, 2006 @ 6:14 pm
Norway has a law in place banning desecrating the flags of foreign nations. Why aren’t they on Think Progress’ list? Ah, because it’s not convenient.
Comment by Seixon
I know you are not this thick headed … your just being asinine.
The WHOLE point to being against this flag burning crap is because of the nazistic nationalistic selfish egotistical mentality it encourages… Norway having a law that respect OTHER PEOPLES flags is the exact opposite of egotistical nationalism…
but of coarse you knew that didnt you…
Comment by Gerald Gibson — June 19, 2006 @ 6:16 pm
Great work all three of you. Notice that Norway boy disappeared?
June 19th, 2006 at 10:22 pm#122 - Lordy, I knew he’d have to sleep some time. *sigh*
June 19th, 2006 at 10:24 pmPost 123 > Guy from Norway is not sleeping > he bar hops from club to club all night till he passes out drunk most likely > lol.
June 19th, 2006 at 11:33 pmY’all are idiots, it does not matter. Just feel good legislation. Don’t get upset retards.
June 19th, 2006 at 11:41 pmSo… the Senate wants to amend our Constitution, which is the foundation that our DEMOCRATIC nation rests on, so that we can be just like those countries we want to “convert” to our preferrable Democratic form of Government? And given that the only approved method of the proper disposal of the flag is the VERY thing they are attempting to amend our Constitution to prevent. So ‘disrespect’ for the flag is no problem, but don’t ‘desecrate’ it? There seems to be little distinction between the two. This is just another example of the lengths that the Republicans will go to for the sole purpose of distracting attention from all that they have failed to accomplish. The similar ‘theme’ shared by all of these distractions is their ‘emotional’ appeal. Reason is non-exisistant when emotions are raging, look what being controlled by ‘fear’ has done. But reason has no part to play in this current ‘drama’, created by Republicans, fearful of losing their jobs. That is not the point of this useless exercise. They should be ashamed of themselves. AS IF!!
June 19th, 2006 at 11:45 pmNo it s much more than that Slugboy.
Much more.
If you had even a peapod of a brain, you’d understand that making it illegal to protest our government by burning a flag, opposes the very freedom of protest that the flag is designed to represent.
Now I know there are a lot of polysyllabic words there, but try and think.
Squint real hard.
June 19th, 2006 at 11:47 pmI know Cyra. Its amazing but its true.
Its like Bizarro World.
June 19th, 2006 at 11:50 pmWhat about a non-Skimpy bathing suit. Would that be OK.
June 20th, 2006 at 12:28 amOr how about if the stars were blue and the field was white, on red and white strips, would tht be a US flag? Or if there was 14 strips or incorrect number of stars, would THAT now be a US flag. There are SOOO many ways to get around this it is sooooo stoooopid.
Obsfication and stupidification of the real issues.
The dems should just run full page “Milk ads”
“Got Fasism”
June 20th, 2006 at 12:42 amWill the amendment ban pandering politicians from wrapping themselves in the flag to get elected while they trash everything the flag stands for?
June 20th, 2006 at 1:24 amThe use of capitol punishment is used pretty much only in regressive third world countries.
Comment by Krazny —
To Krazny,
June 20th, 2006 at 2:35 amJust for clarification, since I know that you wrote “pretty much only” rather than “only, Japan, not exactly a regressive third world country, also has capital punishment. However, unlike the USA, it does not mete it out to junveniles, which used to mean “under 20.” In more recent years, some judges see a gray area between 18 and 20, and occasionally decide that killers in that age range should get death. I am just stating the facts and do not mean to pass any judgment here.
Jules,
June 20th, 2006 at 2:44 amBased on my own experience moving from sunny southern California to attend college in the Northeast, your daughter, should she get into one in Boston, will probably suffer from the cold for the first year or two. But she will eventually get used to it, and it will toughen her up for possible future travels to even colder climes. And if she hasn’t ever seen snow falling, she may, like me as a teenager, find something very magical about it. Anyway, I hope she makes the right choice.
READ THIS EVERYBODY
Who’s Against a Ban on
Fissile Material?
In 2005, Mohamed ElBaradei was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his outstanding work in the international control of nuclear weapons. In 2003, ElBaradei had proposed a verifiable ban on the production of weapons-grade fissile material – a positive move that would severely limit the proliferation of nuclear weapons.
In a vote of the Disarmament Committee of the United Nations (UN), one and only one nation voted against ElBaradei’s proposal – George Bush’s America. In that same vote, Israel abstained, apparently fearing international interference with their own outlaw nuclear weapons program, and Britain abstained in an act of diplomatic fealty to the “special relationship” between Tony Blair and George Bush. The final tally was 147 nations to one with the two abstentions. In a later vote of the entire UN General Assembly, Israel and Britain abstained, while America and Palau voted against ElBaradei’s verifiable ban on fission, and 179 nations voted in favor of his proposal. The final vote on that occasion was 179 in favor, two opposed (U.S. and Palau), and two abstentions (Israel and Britain).
ElBaradei’s proposal would monitor all nuclear fission and guarantee that non-nuclear weapons states would be able to obtain adequate supplies for their nonmilitary usage of enriched plutonium.
One nation has publicly accepted ElBaradei’s proposal: Iran.
In light of this important backstory, it is now perfectly obvious that the so-called “negotiations” among America, its intermediaries, and Iran have been designed to camouflage, distort, and erase the historical record. America and Israel are opposed to ElBaradei’s proposal for a verifiable ban on nuclear fission (Fissban) apparently to prevent the intrusion of international inspectors into the Israeli nuclear industry.
Given the facts of the highly publicized “Iran Plans” for a massive American military intervention against the Iranian nuclear industry and the constant threat of bombing Iran leveled by American authorities from George Bush and Condoleezza Rice to Richard Perle and John Bolton, it is equally clear that American policy is being driven by a Machiavellian political calculus.
Over the past two weeks, there has been a chain of interlocked events: the execution of Zarqawi; the Camp David summit on Iraq; Bush’s secret flight to Baghdad; and the narrow escape of Karl Rove from federal indictment in the Valerie Plame case. These events are fitting into a discernible pattern designed to resuscitate the dying political corpse of the Bush administration in time for the midterm elections this November.
The continuing weakness of the Bush administration, as measured by the president’s approval rating, will embolden those proponents of the unilateral bombardment of Iran as a measure that could precipitate the president’s resurgence. With so little left to lose, Bush may press the button for war in hopes of gaining approval in red-state America, where his political fate will be decided on the Nov. 6.
Darker plans may even be afoot, or so we are led to believe by scholars of the U.S. intelligence industry. The former CIA official Ray McGovern has warned of “staged” atrocities as part of a covert U.S. program for the manufacture of “’synthetic terror.” Robert Woodward warned an academic audience in Texas that the next major atrocity on U.S. soil would reduce 9/11 to a footnote in world history. There are persistent back-channel rumors of Republican Party officials circulating memoranda longing for a return to the heady days after 9/11 to revive the ailing Bush presidency – even at the cost of a new 9/11.
Neither America’s people nor the peoples of other nations are being adequately informed about the history of international planning for the control of fissionable materials, which are the essential ingredients for nuclear weapons. The global media is complicit in the increasing threats to peace by a deeply unpopular American president and his loyal cadre of neoconservative apparatchiks, who now threaten the future of the planet with a holocaust of gigantic proportions.
June 20th, 2006 at 4:59 amAnd all of these flags being burned?
Made in China
June 20th, 2006 at 6:29 am“If successful, it will mark the first time in 214 years that the Bill of Rights has been restricted by a constitutional amendment,”
What about Prohibition? Pursuit of happiness, and all that…(ha)
June 20th, 2006 at 7:37 amIf Thomas Jefferson were alive today we’d all be horsewhipped for our stupidity.
June 20th, 2006 at 7:44 amNeither have I burned an American flag nor am I likely to do so. However, should I feel strongly about an issue to which I wish to draw attention, I should have the right to do so. Anyone willing to draw the ire of other Americans should be permitted to assume that risk.
June 20th, 2006 at 8:21 amThis administration has done more to desicrate the American flag than an occasional citizen burning it will ever do…
June 20th, 2006 at 9:15 amAmen, No.139! This Adminstration has done more to desicrate WHAT THE FLAG STANDS FOR THEN ANY OTHER Adminstration and Diane Feinstein SUCKS Big time too! As does MOST Democrats in Senate! 90% of D’s in Senate need to be run out of office on a rail along with R’s.
June 20th, 2006 at 9:59 am[…] So that’s what amounts to sound policy in Republican America. Ignore the real problems, and waste taxpayer time and money solving a problem that occurred just 45 times in the first 200 years of the country’s existence. […]
June 20th, 2006 at 10:36 amSo, if it passes, does that mean we burn the flag & risk a ticket as protest?
June 20th, 2006 at 11:46 amThose who would ban flag-burning consider the message against the government to be uniquely reprehensible. If the message conveyed by that act can be conveyed equally well in another manner, then why are not the other forms of dissent likewise to be banned?
The fact of the matter is, this particular expression cannot be made in any other fashion. It is effective precicely because it offends in a way no other statement could.
Burning Halliburton logos, for example, just would not have the same impact.
This Amendment would leave “free speech” safe…and a little less free.
June 20th, 2006 at 12:02 pmDianne Feinstein has gone downhill in a bad way over the years. I had respect for her when the Mayor and a City Councilman were murdered in SF City Hall, she did a fine job taking care of things then. She’s forgotten who she was.
June 20th, 2006 at 12:21 pm“There is no idea or thought expressed by the burning
of the American flag that cannot be expressed equally
well in another manner. This Amendment would leave
both the flag and free speech safe.”
Dianne Feinstein
I would counter that the very same arguement can be made against Blogs, newpapers, word of mouth.
“This Amendment would leave both the flag and free speech safe.”
June 20th, 2006 at 12:25 pmTotal lie. This amendment would gut free speech as we know it. And she knows it.
Political posturing. Pandering. Grandstanding. Lowlife behavior from someone who knows better.
“There is no idea or thought expressed by the burning
of the American flag that cannot be expressed equally
well in another manner. ”
Dianne Feinstein
I would counter that the very same argument can be made against Blogs, newpapers, word of mouth. Each could be replaced. Until there is nothing left of free speech but a memory.
“This Amendment would leave both the flag and free speech safe.”
June 20th, 2006 at 12:27 pmTotal lie. This amendment would gut free speech as we know it. And she knows it.
Political posturing. Pandering. Grandstanding. Lowlife behavior from someone who knows better.
I apologize for the double post.
June 20th, 2006 at 12:28 pmFeinstein is no longer a real Democrat, so she must be voted out of the Senate, or forced to resign in shame! Her husband has gotten filthy rich off selling armaments to the military for the Iraq war > they just purchased a 22 million dollar estate in California with that blood money!
June 20th, 2006 at 12:47 pmScrew Feinstein.
In case she or anyone else is to stupid to get it, ACCORDING TO US CODE, THE MOST PATRIOTIC AND RESPECTFUL way to dispose of the American flag, is to BURN IT.
It doesn’t say to bury it, bottle it or blow it up.
The United States Code says to BURN IT.
So this ENTIRE ARGUMENT is a big fat RED HERRING.
God republicans are idiots. And democrat leaders like Feinstein who cowtow to their bull are even bigger idiots.
June 20th, 2006 at 4:03 pm22 Million???
Man, shes on the gravy train ain’t she?
June 20th, 2006 at 5:01 pm[…] If successful, it will mark the first time in 214 years that the Bill of Rights has been restricted by a constitutional amendment, and will place the United States among a select group of nations that have banned flag desecration, including Cuba, China, Iran, and Iraq under Saddam Hussein. - Think Progress […]
June 22nd, 2006 at 2:39 am[…] If successful, it will mark the first time in 214 years that the Bill of Rights has been restricted by a constitutional amendment, and will place the United States among a select group of nations that have banned flag desecration, including Cuba, China, Iran, and Iraq under Saddam Hussein. - Think Progress […]
June 22nd, 2006 at 2:47 amSo we’re going to weaken our precious Constitution in order to protect its symbol. Will somebody please do a logic diagram of this?
June 22nd, 2006 at 1:47 pmSAVE THE FLAG’s SOLE
NOT CLOTH on a POLE
Our flag Red, White, and Blue, hurray!
Should we protect it like Dorian Gray?
Though it was most evil
Dorian made a deal with the devil
His body would age not a day
Instead his sole would bear his decay
Preserving his body in this way
Caused his sole to further decay
When the flag is burned
It’s sole is not injured
Freedom makes the flag’s sole shine brightly
Better to see a flag burned nightly
Than to pass a law punishing freedom of expression
For which the flag is a proud representation
A repressive law is not a needed solution
Instead honor our flag with this resolution:
Read the First Amendment, including Senators & Mrs. Clinton
Understand and preserve the principal clearly written
Save the flag’s soul
Not cloth on a poll!
Sincerely submitted by the author, Dale J. Retter
June 22nd, 2006 at 7:40 pmIf someone wants to go out and buy a flag and burn it to voice his/her displeasure with the government, I say, let them.
Better they burn a flag than blow up a building.
June 24th, 2006 at 9:47 am[…] now, five years later, i’m getting ready to torch it. The U.S. Senate is one vote away from passing a constitutional amendment that would criminalize desecration of the U.S. flag. […]
June 27th, 2006 at 12:12 amLook, of course they know burning an old weathered flag is the proper way to dispose of it. It’s the INTENTION when burning it that is being made illegal and THAT is the worst part of this. THAT is the fascist aspect of this bill. THAT is why it should not now or ever pass.
The ones who should be prosecuted, if anyone, are the jerks who put little flags on the aerials of their gas-guzzling SUVs and leave it there until it’s a tattered shread of its former self. THEY are desecrating it!
June 27th, 2006 at 1:32 pmI’m sorry. Of course those with tattered aerial flags shouldn’t be prosecuted. No one should. But damnit, they’re probably some of the most vocal supporters of an amendment. But it’s okay for them. THEY’re being patriotic putting it there. It’s okay for them to be disrespectful of it.
June 27th, 2006 at 3:40 pmIt is unbelievable to me that ANY senator who gives a hoot about America would vote for this clearly unAmerican piece of “legislation,” and it is gratifying, in its own way, to see a few Republicans actually stand up against it on this issue. What in the world are people who would vote for this thinking?
June 27th, 2006 at 7:21 pmThe American Flag is a symbol of freedom, including free speech. When the flag is burned it is defying the very thing it stands for “freedom”. Some idiot decided to burn the American flag one day and some liberal ACLU lawyer got involved and decided it “was an expression of free speech to burn the American Flag”. So it saved this flag burner a couple of days in jail. This is total bologna in my book. The American Flag is more than speech to me. It is a symbol of all those who fought and died for it. If you burn it you are spitting in the face of those who fought to protect it. Shame on you for hiding behind free speech!
“Oh, say can you see, by the dawn’s early light,
What so proudly we hailed at the twilight’s last gleaming?
Whose broad stripes and bright stars, through the perilous fight,
O’er the ramparts we watched, were so gallantly streaming?
And the rockets’ red glare, the bombs bursting in air,
Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there.
O say, does that star-spangled banner yet wave
O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave? ”
God forgive you…
First amendment:Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances
I see freedom of speech as being able to say anything I want. A flag burning is a physical thing, like killing someone. Oh, I just shot the guy with my gun as a figure of speech! Yea, like that will hold up in court.
June 27th, 2006 at 8:43 pmBurning the flag is not a matter of freedom of speech, its a matter of the desecration of a national symbol. Maybe I should piss on the Eternal Flame or take a crap at the Lincoln Memorial? Im sure that would be illegal!!! I have never been so ashamed of my fellow citizens or the idiots that represent us. If you love this country and love what it stands for write your congress person and voice your displeasure…. This country was founded on courage and patriotism. Right or wrong you stand by your flag……How many people have given their lives for the Stars And Stripes???? I guess they all had a choice in the matter? Burning the flag is like lighting a torch to their memories!! They gave their lives so you selfish SOB’S would have the freedom to voice your opinion’s today……..SHAME SHAME SHAME ON U!!!!!
June 28th, 2006 at 12:48 amI’m with you Pissed off American:
All this Anti-American rhetoric about burning the US flag, and freedom of speech, makes me want to puke. I wish I had a time machine so that I could go back and bring Joe McCarthy back with me to see all of this.
Do any of these people who hate their country so much that they want to burn the very symbol of freedom that is being fought for today by our men and women in uniform, remember Julius and Ethel Rosenberg?
I wish they would bring back the UnAmerican Activities Committee.
All I can say now that the amendment has been defeated, is that if anyone tries t