It is a growing practice to kneel when the Stars and Stripes of the United States of America are flown and the anthem is played. Some kneel out of rebellion. Some kneel out of peer-pressure. Some kneel out of ignorance. Some kneel out of a misplaced sense of self-expression. But they are ALL kneeling to tyranny and oppression.

The ignorant will be outraged by the preceding words.

Don’t be. Don’t be ignorant, and don’t be outraged.

Instead, remember.

Remember what flag was born from hot lead, sweat, blood, tears, and an unquenchable desire for liberty. Remember what banner flew amidst fiery shell bursts and withstood the assault of bondage. Remember what colors beat in the wind when this country was divided against itself and when the invitation of freedom was extended to ALL. Remember what flag caught the attention of generations of immigrants. Remember the banner that flew over freedom speeches and liberating legal actions. Remember… Remember that flag, the Flag of the United States of America. The Flag represents over two centuries of people who were united in the cause of freedom.

Therefore, the Flag is a symbol of freedom and has been flown by the lovers and supporters of freedom. It is our flag. It is our banner that we unite under when dividing forces threaten our homes. It is our colors that we recognize, despite what color our skin is.

Some would claim the flag represents the opposite to them. Some would say the flag reminds them of oppressions that have happened in this country. It is true that horrible things have happened in this country, but it has always been the Flag that has flown over a free people.

The Flag of the United States of America stands for freedom, and ALL who STAND for the flag also STAND for freedom. ALL who STAND for freedom also STAND against tyranny and oppression.

Then let us STAND. Let us ALL STAND together. Let us STAND under the Stars and Stripes. Let us be united in the cause of freedom. ALL STAND, united.