[dont tread on me]

with the current debate over flag burning, something seems to have been left out. i believe whole-heartedly that the flag is a sacred symbol that should be respected and revered. too many men have died protecting it for us to start taking it as anything less. however, is it respectful for us to print the flag on boxer shorts, paper plates, napkins, where it becomes commotitized just like every other peice of junk that we buy and throw away? it is essential that we stop whoring out our beloved symbol of this great nation's power and spirit before we start accusing our own citizens of being unpatriotic for trying to express discontent with our government's actions by burning the flag. sorry, im about to celebrate, its the fourth of july, so i have no time to elaborate, im interested in your thoughts . . .. .


God bless America

[jproffitt10]

Don't Tread on Me,

You are correct on several levels. There are numerous subsections in the United States Flag Code's section 8 which specifically address what you mention--the U.S. flag printed on dozens if not hundreds of disposable consumer goods (that are more than likely manufactured in China and elsewhere).

Since it seems likely that an amendment will never appear on the constitution which prevents flag-burning as a form of protest, it is obvious that no law will ever be enacted that protects the flag from blatant commercialism and other forms of disprespectful display and reproduction.

What's to do? Practice educating as many people as possible and make whatever small difference you can, personally. If enough people take on that task, eventually a sea-change will effect itself. Until then, good luck and don't go crazy thinking about it--you have done your part.

[Just George]

I agree that before we make a new law to prevent US Flag burning in protest, we should get our flag off the junk. Why not print our flag symbol on toilet paper? The proper use of the paper would sure get your point across! But who would see it? Burning the flag in protest gets media attention. Wiping your #&& with the flag would not. What a shame.