Florida Sen. Ashley Moody has introduced the PLEDGE Act, legislation aimed at requiring daily civic traditions in Washington, D.C., public schools. The proposed act would mandate that all public school classrooms in the nation’s capital display the American flag and offer students a daily opportunity to recite the Pledge of Allegiance.
Background and Rationale
Sen. Moody cited concerns over current curriculum standards and declining national pride among younger generations as the rationale behind the legislation. According to recent Gallup polling data, 41 percent of Generation Z respondents reported feeling extremely or very proud to be Americans, compared to 58 percent of millennials, 71 percent of Generation X, 75 percent of baby boomers, and 83 percent of the Silent Generation.
The legislation also references social studies frameworks established by the District of Columbia Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE), which include lessons on community leaders, local political movements, Indigenous history, and the concept of “The Long Civil Rights Movement.”
Supporters of the legislation argue that it would help restore pride in the nation by reminding students every day of the freedom, responsibilities, and blessings that come with being an American, and the sacrifices made for the flag and everything it represents.
Original reporting: Tampa Free Press — read the source article.
