By Breanna Groen
DMACC Honors Student 
In far too many classrooms in the United States, children have the option not to stand, put their right hand over their heart, and recite the Pledge of Allegiance. Instead of all 50, only 43 states are required by law to recite the pledge in the classroom.
The number of states that do not require the pledge is causing the country to move in the wrong direction. All 50 states should be required to state the pledge.
Schools need to continue to declare dedication to their country, the United States of America. The purpose of the Pledge of Allegiance is to vow loyalty and support for our magnificent and generous country. The United States is a wonderful country and we should all be so grateful to be here. Our children need to understand the importance of showing fidelity and respect to our flag and our country just as we had the opportunity to do in school.
The flag is a symbol of our country. Here, we can make our own choices and be different than others. The flag symbolizes red, white, and blue. It symbolizes innocence. It symbolizes hardiness and vigilance. And it symbolizes liberty and justice for all. It represents freedom and rightfulness for Americans. It is imperative that we embrace that.
The narrating of the pledge has been a tradition on the United States for more than 100 years. It was written by Francis Bellamy and published in September 1892. In 1954, the words “under God” were added by President Eisenhower and the pledge has caused controversy ever since. According to Affinity magazine, many do not wish to state the pledge because they do not believe in God and because it violates the First Amendment, freedom of speech. But why is it so wrong to devote allegiance to the country in which you live?
How can one be ashamed of displaying allegiance to the flag? How can one be ashamed of displaying patriotism? How can one be ashamed of displaying appreciation for the United States? Simple words “under God” harm so few. According to a Gallup news poll, 89 percent of those in the United States believe in God. In May 2014, the Supreme Court ruled that the words “under God” represent a patriotic, and not a religious exercise. The pledge is not about God.
The pledge will always be a part of our American culture and tradition. It will always be a part of our history; there is no erasing that. I believe that some have forgotten where we have come from as a country. Being patriotic is a privilege; it is an honor to be able to state the pledge. It is also about thanking those who have served our country. To show this respect for our flag, our country, and to those who have fought for our freedom is such a great opportunity to take advantage of.
Declaring the pledge should continue in the school systems in the United States. The pledge brings us together as a group of people and makes us stronger and more united. It shows pride. The pledge demonstrates true liberty. It shows that we are thanking the country for all that we have been given. It is the American thing to do to recite the pledge.
“I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America…”
Breanna Groen is from Allison, Iowa. After graduating from DMACC in December, she plans to transfer to Iowa State. Her goal is to teach English, Spanish, or special education.