Students Rights -- Pledge Of Allegiance
1. Can I be made to recite the Pledge of Allegiance?
No. The Supreme Court has ruled that just as the First Amendment protects an individual’s right to say what he or she wants, it also protects his or her right not to say something. Almost 60 years ago the court determined that compulsory flag salutes are a violation of an individual’s right to free speech. So, students in public schools may refuse to participate in the Pledge of Allegiance and choose to remain quietly seated instead. Note, however, that if you decline to say the pledge that you do not have the right to disrupt the proceedings.
2. What about a moment of silence?
It depends on what the purpose of the moment of silence is, and how it is carried out. If the only purpose or effect is to promote religion, then it is forbidden. (See the section on religion for more information in this area.) On the other hand, if the purpose of the moment of silence has nothing to do with religion -- for example, the purpose is to remember someone who died or to think about world peace -- then it is probably okay.
Students Rights Handbook index:
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