Hate Crimes Bill

[Ken King]

People who burn the flag in protest are being idiotic and provocative. They just want to get people riled up. It's a pathetic, desperate plea for attention. Reminds me of PETA protesters.

Still, I agree that flag-burning as protest should remain legal. As you probably know, flag etiquette calls for damaged flags to be burned in a dignified manner. I've heard of local Legion halls doing this. I could easily imagine police arresting someone by mistake at one of those ceremonies.

I doubt if anyone would ever confuse the respectful disposing of a flag with the disrespectful destruction of it. And since you brought up the etiquette, how do you consider the protestors within their rights when the laws concerning respect for the flag state "The flag represents a living country and is itself considered a living thing." (see 4USC8j)?

 

[justhangn]

People who burn the flag in protest are being idiotic and provocative. They just want to get people riled up. It's a pathetic, desperate plea for attention. Reminds me of PETA protesters.

Still, I agree that flag-burning as protest should remain legal. As you probably know, flag etiquette calls for damaged flags to be burned in a dignified manner. I've heard of local Legion halls doing this. I could easily imagine police arresting someone by mistake at one of those ceremonies.

"burned in a dignified manner" doesn't sound like burning it in protest.........

I'll agree, people have to right to do what they wish in legal protest, but I also reserve the right to react in a manner I see fit.