(via Dan Gillmor’s blog)
In a move sure to confound many, Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) has taken the side of those who wish to institute a ban on flag-burning in America. Understand that I think burning the flag is a stupid thing. However, like many others, I believe that it is an act which is protected as free speech. I don’t have to agree with what someone does to feel they should have the freedom to do it. In the case of flag-burning, I don’t agree with the people who do it, but I do believe those people should have the right to burn the flag. Of course, I can particularly see the irony here of people protesting America by taking part in an act which is not widely protected outside of America. And I would have no qualms telling those people they are free to go live elsewhere.
Washington, DC – U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) today spoke on the floor of the United States Senate in support of the flag protection amendment. In her remarks, Senator Feinstein expressed her belief that the current debate on this amendment is about conduct, not speech, and that the flag protection amendment itself is content neutral. She also argued that she believes the American flag is a monument to the spirit and values of this country, and should be protected as such. The following are her remarks, as delivered:
[tags]Flag burning, Free Speech, Dianne Feinstein[/tags]