Fifth Grader Refuses To Say Pledge of Allegiance Until Gays Gain Equality

Originally posted by mutantgenius
My daughter (going into fifth grade this year) refuses to partake in the pledge of allegiance until "the republic is truly free and there is justice for all" and I quote! Her teacher last year was quite respectful and just made her stand during the pledge. I wonder what her teacher next year is going to say! I hope she isn't in the news like this kid. I envy her resolve for personal freedom.

Friendly curiosity, what is your daughter's definition of a free republic and justice for all? I'm interested as I have an outspoken going into 5th grader as well.

Back to the subject. It's surprising what children are capable of in those magnificent brains of theirs. I have a 9 year old who is entering 5th grade and gets gifted support at her school.

#1 - Of course children are influenced by their parents. My daughter tends to think more conservatively about fiscal & political issues because I and her dad are more conservative. More liberal in other areas - I think the civil institution of marriage should be available to same-sex couples, but I also think that religious organizations need protection from being sued for not performing a religious marriage ceremony that is against their beliefs.

#2 - Children are also influenced by other authority figures such as teachers. And you have to admit, schools have been introducing gay propaganda into the lessons.

#3 - They also form their own opinions. Last year (4th grade) my daughter picked up and read my copy of Animal Farm when I set it down. This lead to a discussion of different forms of government including republics, democracies, socialist, fascist, etc. I, as her parent, did not tell her to answer the question "America was initially founded as what form of government" with "I'm writing democracy because that's in the book, but we're actually a constitutional republic".

So, IMHO, this child probably picked up his tolerant and accepting attitude from watching his parents and possibly teachers, then made up his mind to take a stand.

Everyone's influenced from another. No one is an original.
Take this for example: There is not one original thought on this board. Anywhere!!