Letter to the Editor: Flag Phobia (August, 2006)
On Independence Day, I took a casual drive around Takoma Park and noticed that there were very few homes displaying the American flag. Why? I started to speculate on the possible reasons: APATHY OR LETHARGY?? Hardly. There is plenty of energy in Takoma Park for the “right causes” and signs that announce these causes are on most bumpers and in most yards. Well, maybe the non-flag folks are confusing patriotism with politics. You know, if you fly the flag other folks may confuse you with a Bush supporter or even a Republican. That would be too much to bear in a “diverse” community. News Flash... “Old Glory “ transcends politics. The flag is displayed with pride because it is the symbol of our liberties and freedoms. You can post your pithy bumper stickers and yard signs, that in most countries would be declared treasonous, because of these freedoms symbolized by the Flag.
FAST FORWARD one month to replies in the Voice. Here’s a sampling: “The flag represents sovereignty and nationalism which stand in the way of a true world community.”
“I’ll never fly the flag until our Democrat Party sets the Country straight, gets us out of Iraq, signs Kyoto, and permanently bans mention of God everywhere except in church.”
Here’s hoping that next year brings more flag display. When you display the “Bush Lies” sign be equally proud to fly the flag. That is the reason why you can say these things and remain free.
—Charles J. Hayes
Ethan Allen Ave.