Scrap the Pledge

This isn't a major issue at the moment, though it has been in the recent past.  The Pledge of Allegiance for the U.S. has been the center of significant controversy in recent years.  Most of the controversy centers on the phrase Under God, which was added to the pledge in 1954.  I consider this a minor issue, as the title for this post may suggest.

I remember reciting The Pledge throughout my school years.  I was a good little American and recited everyday while in school.  I have two reasons for at least reducing it's place in public life. (image -  Students pledging to the flag in a former form of the salute, specifically the Bellamy salute)

First, The Pledge does absolutely nothing.  Maybe some folks feel patriotic when they recite it, especially during time of war.  To be honest, I never took it seriously growing up.  It was just he first thing you did in your day at school.  I think most kids who recite it have grown numb to any meaning that could be gained from The Pledge.  It seems to me, that if The Pledge is so important, then we would want to reduce its use so that it doesn't become a meaningless series of words that tired school kids brainlessly repeat each morning.  Basically, give The Pledge some real respect.

Second, I completely oppose compulsory recitation of The Pledge.  That violates the very rights the words are meant to glorify in The Pledge.  Forcing citizens to recite The Pledge sounds totalitarian and belongs in an Orwell novel, not American classrooms.  Besides, what does it say about a nation where people feel that a Pledge of Allegiance is needed.

If we are to maintain a Pledge for the U.S., we need to have some changes.  Take it out of the schools.  This should only be used on rare occasions, like swearing in new citizens (where it serves a ceremonial purpose).  We should change the wording of The Pledge as well.  I certainly don't pledge allegiance to a flag.  I don't mind having a flag as a symbol of our nation, but I don't swear to it.  As much as I disagree and almost despise the man, Michael Moore actually has a good suggestion for new wording: 

I pledge allegiance to the people of the United States of America, and to the republic, for which we stand, one nation, part of one world, with liberty and justice for all.

It's not ideal, but I do think it's a place to start and I think it brings up some of the core issues that patriotism should be about.

I think that, improving the wording, reducing repetition, and providing The Pledge a proper ceremonial use, The Pledge will develop real meaning.  That will lead more people to appreciate what it says and what it means.  Just my thoughts.