Flag amendment restricts free speech

July 5, 1995

People who want to "protect the flag" from physical desecration are confusing the symbol with what is being symbolized. Putting restrictions on our precious First Amendment rights damages the most important rights of all.

Free speech protects all of our rights. If the person burning the flag owns the flag, let him burn it. That won't affect what the flag symbolizes. Those in favor of a flag amendment do not understand that the flag stands for liberty - not fear of liberty.

Alan L. Light Iowa City, Iowa

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