We all have the right to pledge allegiance to our country without at the same time making a specific religious statement. It is also unconscionable to ask any American to remain silent while another American promotes their beliefs with governmental authority. This is as un-American as you can get.

The Pledge in use today, written by Francis Bellamy in 1892, was modified by the U.S. congress in 1954 by adding the words “under God” and in effect turning it into an unconstitutional public prayer. There are millions of Americans who believe in God but do not believe they are "under" God. Some find God within their own hearts while others believe they are part of --not under-- a divine power or sacred universe. Still others do not believe in God at all. The religious beliefs of these Americans are violated by our government, in schools, in public meetings, or anywhere the Pledge is recited. Because of a desire to avoid 1st Amendment conflicts, many simply avoid reciting the Pledge. It was changed before and it can be changed back.



Whether you consider yourself Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Native American, Buddhist, Hindu, Pagan, Atheist, Humanist, etc...., as Americans we all recognize that the strength of this country is based on its plurality of cultures and beliefs. True patriotism is not shown by how often you wave the flag or say the Pledge, but by the respect you accord the primary pillar of our democracy, the Constitution of the United States.