Readers React: 'Our Children Should Recite the Pledge'

On Aug. 18, we asked readers if they thought students in schools should be required to recite the Pledge of Allegiance. The conversation turned quickly to a discussion about the “under God” phrase, among other topics.

Do you agree with the reader comments?

Annie S.: I hope the parents of the children who've obviously fed them a line of crud about not being ok with saying "under God" don't let their kids have money either. That says "In God We Trust" and might effect their lack of spiritual beliefs.

Barry LeBlanc: What we have here is a failure to communicate...That this piece of earth called America is for any body to come and make a home from ever civilization some one flee from...So if you want to be an American pony up and pledge allegiance to a country that has given you hope...if you don't like it the door is always open to leave...

Steve Soucy: The way I see it, there are options......very real and viable options. When you come to "that" sentence........simply say "under MY God".......if you have no GOD, then refrain from saying "under God". ".....for which it stands, one nation, indivisible........".

Sean Hayford Oleary: I think it's important to note that schools aren't really required to offer it, that's just the default. School boards may elect not to offer it. For me, my grade school recited, but the charter high school I attended had specifically chosen not to recite by board resolution. I was never aware in my early years that it was an option not to recite it. And really, what could be more un-American than forcing (or pressuring) young children across the US to declare their allegiance to the federal government? Love for one's country should be freely given, not forced by social custom or by law.

Juniper: No one should be forced or obliged to recited the pledge. It ha no part in schools at all. I love those who attack Liberals and those who do not believe in god. We do not live in a theocracy but a secular state.

Veronicq Fashant: pride in our country. Begins in the home AND the school. Reciting the pledge at school is a time honored tradition. Pray God it continues.