Photo credit | Facebook
York High School in Chicago is taking heat from parents and alumni after teachers desecrated the American flag. The flag is laying flat on the floor in the school library, by teachers from the English and Social Sciences departments to promote discussion about the First Amendment. However, many believe the display has nothing to do with education.
It is well-known, that the American flag should never touch the ground. But, that didn’t stop teachers from placing one on the floor for what they are calling a “class project.” York Principal, Erin DeLuga, is sending a letter to parents to explain the reason for desecrating the flag.
“The purpose of the forum was to explore the complexities of the constitutionally protected right of free speech by examining real cases,” says DeLuga. “It was used for students to reconcile their feelings about current issues and whether their First Amendment rights are protected. This is in no way meant to disrespect the flag, the military or the government.”
“However, parents and alumni aren’t buying the principal’s story. Significantly, former students see the desecration as an insult to America’s veterans and active-duty military. “Your staff is disrespecting our American flag,” wrote a York alumni who served in the military. “My grandfather fought in World War II, risking his life for that flag you put on the ground.
“Want to teach freedom of speech – disrespect a Nazi flag.”
Destroying Patriotism
Photo credit | WKRG
Consequently, this is just one of many incidents involving protesting symbols of American democracy. Controversy is brewing at a Florida elementary school after a first-grader chose to kneel during the Pledge of Allegiance. In Missouri, a group of 7-year old football players turned their back on the flag while kneeling for the national anthem.
Incidentally, the Elmhurst school district is responding to the outrage over the lesson saying neither they nor school administrators were informed about the project.
Some people not only agree with the teachers in this case, but they are openly encouraging them. “I’m a proud York graduate today,” one woman tells the Chicago Tribune. “This is ONE example of democracy in action,” says another.
We can only wonder- would they feel the same way if a Christian teacher were to burn a Koran in the name of free speech?
