[EmailPoster]

May a flag be worn in clothing?...

Originally Posted by JMPrice

May a flag be worn in clothing? I have a shirt I bought prior to 9/11.
The entire left half is horizontal red and white stripes, the entire
right half is a blue field with stars. Is this inappropriate? If so, how
do I need to dispose of this shirt? Also, am I misguided to feel that it
is mark of patriotism to wear such a shirt? I feel that it shows respect
to the flag to want to be identified with it, but above all, I do not
want to disrespect the flag. Images of rock stars wearing the flag
itself disgusts me, such as Madonna did in one of her "Rock the Vote"
campaigns. But is a shirt made with a flag pattern any different? Love
your site, by the way! God Bless America!

Thanks, Jeff

[jproffitt10]

Jeff,

Thanks for your thoughtful questions. The U.S. Flag Code, section 4-(d) states: "The flag should never be used as wearing apparel, bedding, or drapery...." While it's not misquided to feel its wearing as a mark of patriotism, others may feel differently--just as you do about Madonna's use of it. As far as disposal of the shirt, since technically it isn't an American flag there would be no harm in disposing of it however you wish, which could include the option of a proper burning and burial ceremony.

If you want to display the flag on a personal level, there are options available for patches and pins which are appropriate, respectful and patriotic.

[russel01]

I just hate it, women's wear bikinis of our US flag. They should respect it.

[sarahw]

It is true that the code says the flag should not be worn as clothing, but most people now accept clothing with a flag pattern on it that is not actually made out of a flag. If you're uncomfortable with it, you certainly don't have to wear it, but you don't need to destroy the shirt as you would a flag, because it isn't really a flag.

For some reason this reminds me of this weekend's Doonesbury comic about flag desecration. Not to say that protecting the flag isn't important, but there is a line somewhere between a depiction of a flag, say, on a T-shirt and the actual flag. Something to think about, anyway.

sarah

[Just George]

Well, I guess I'll throw my 2-cents in here. I agree that the thought of wearing our flag on clothing, wiping our mouths on a napkin that has our flag printed on it, or seeing a police car with the entire rear deck painted as our flag look real nice. However, I just don't think it's right. Our flag means so much more than advertising. I also go along with the pin, patch and decal use of our flag. I display our flag on the rear window of my truck. It's a decal that is about 5" long and 3 1/2" wide. I also flay our flag (46-stars) at home in my Cowboy Kitchen (outdoor bbq and gathering spot).

I guess it's 'to each his own', until it violates the US Flag Code.

[LibraryJim]

Jeff,
I think I know the shirt you mean:
http://www.flagclothes.com/_image.as...sleeve_SS.jpg&

I had one similar and at washing the red turned the entire shirt pink and purple!

Question for others: Is that an acceptable shirt to wear? how about:



I'd be interested in your opinions. (so far, I've talked to ex-navy officers who see no problems with these shirts.)

[sarahw]

I vote that it's OK, again because it's not made from an actual flag, just a representation of a flag. But some people are more strict about that rule than others.

Sarah

[LibraryJim]

Thanks, Sarah. I appreciate it.

Jim

[Just George]

I would wear the one on the left, but not the one on the right. Even at that, the t-shirt is just about to far for me to go. However, I see nothing wrong with it. It surly tells our American Story.

[msamericanpatriot1970]

There is a web site that offers clothing made out of the same stuff a real flag is made out of. I have a vest done by these people and eventually want to get the ball cap, neck tie and jacket that is made the same way. The place is called Flag Clothes. They state that no flags were harmed in the making of their clothes. Unlike what Kid Rock did which IS disrespectful to the flag. I think I have a polo shirt like the one an earlier poster described. It has the stars on one side and the stripes on another. They offer this shirt at the Flag Clothes site. As soon as I can find my on line photo album I will show some pictures of how I dress all the time and NOT just special days like Flag Day or Patriot's Day.