Napolitano Denounces Pledge of Allegiance Court Decision

Today, Congresswoman Grace Napolitano (D-Norwalk) denounced the decision of the 9^th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals which ruled that it is unconstitutional for public schools to lead students in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance because of its reference to God. The House today passed a resolution expressing opposition to this ruling and supporting the inclusion of the words “one nation, under God”.

Congresswoman Napolitano voted for the resolution and noted the particular inappropriateness of this ruling in the light of the increased patriotism since September 11: “I do not agree with this ruling, especially after 9-11, when so many of us have found solace in our patriotism and religion.”

In 1954, Congress voted to insert the words “under God” into the Pledge of Allegiance to further differentiate the U.S. and our democracy from godless communism. At a time marked by extreme Cold War tensions, this action received great support from the American people.

“We are again facing a time when we must defend our nation, our democracy, and our way of life. This is a time when we must rally around unifying principles and symbols—like the Pledge of Allegiance—not deny our children the opportunity to express their patriotism and devotion to their country,” stated Congresswoman Napolitano.

Several constitutional law scholars have said that the simple inclusion of the word “God” does not constitute establishment of a state religion. In fact, all Supreme Court oral arguments begin with “God save the United States.” The late Justice Brennan once called this “ceremonial deism,” traditional references to a higher power so frequently used that they have lost any specific religious meaning.

“I do not support a state established religion, and I do not support the coercion of students to participate in religious activities, but that is not what this ruling is about. We can see how ridiculous this ruling is when we realize that under the court’s reasoning, even our currency—bearing the phrase ‘In God We Trust’—would be unconstitutional. It is unnecessary and inappropriate to try to eliminate all references to God from our society,” stated the Congresswoman.

This morning the House of Representatives began their business by reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and singing God Bless America. Several Senators and President Bush also expressed their opposition to the ruling and their support for students reciting the Pledge of Allegiance in its current form.

Representative Grace F. Napolitano, 38th District of California

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