From early childhood, we are taught to pledge allegiance to the American flag. The flag, with its undulating movements of stars and stripes, is a symbol of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness for so many Americans. However, for some, the very image of the flag evokes familiar thoughts and feelings, conjuring up deep intrinsic sentiments about a democracy that has not always been fair, kind, or inclusive.
The question we need to ask ourselves as Americans is what does the flag mean to us, individually? Who and what are we pledging allegiance to? What do we premise our beliefs on? Does the flag symbolize the guiding principles upon which we stand and build our lives? Or does it symbolize a far greater power more deserving of allegiance? One might argue that the flag is just an image-the representation of a "Republic" and form of "government" where "supreme power resides in the body of its citizens" and the "elected officials" they vote for and choose to represent them. (Merriam-Webster, 2020). On the other hand, one might also argue that it is the embodiment of In God We Trust and the fulfillment of One Nation Under God? (UShistory.org., n.d.).