country. George Whalen, a soldier, said “the stars and stripes of our nations flag is the symbol of our nation’s values... It represents loyalty patriotism and love of our country.“ (“citizens” 3). Those against flag desecration must remember that the men and women who fought and died for our country were fighting for justice, freedom, and independence, all of which give one the right to desecrate the flag. Yes, the flag represents these freedoms, but the constitution ensures them. An amendment revoking this right would lead to limited individual freedoms and a lack personal responsibility. In addition to violating one’s rights of freedom of expression, the no-flag burning amendment gives government the power to decide what American actions are and are not acceptable; consequently, giving the government a dangerous power. If the government were given this power, where would it draw the line? Would political cartoons be banned; they too represent unpopular beliefs? “It could be the start of a domino effect one hundred times more dangerous than any other restriction ever imposed upon the Civil Liberties of American citizens” (Barto 2).When dealing with the subject of flag desecration, Americans must remember that the first amendment was not designed to protect popular speech--if it were, it would serve no purpose whatsoever. Government cannot be given the power to determine limitations of free speech. Although destroying the symbol of freedom, something millions of people died for, is disrespectful, Americans must be allowed to do so. In order to preserve the rights of freedom of expression, which are intensely defined in the constitution, one must be allowed to desecrate the flag, ensuring the stability of the U.S. Constitution for future generations....
