María Elvira Salazar: “I rise to speak about the flag desecration amendment and talk about the nature of the debate we have seen in the Senate…”

“I rise to speak about the flag desecration amendment and talk about the nature of the debate we have seen in the Senate over the last 2 days. First, let me be clear. I support the amendment that came before the Senate today, and I just cast my vote for it. The American flag is a unique symbol of our heritage, our principles, and everything the citizens of this great country have done to sacrifice for it. I do not believe laws narrowly prohibiting the desecration of our flag in any way undercut the principles embedded in the first amendment. However, it is important to emphasize certain points as we debate these issues. First, as is often the case when we consider whether to amend the Constitution, this is not a simple question. It is not a question that is cut and dried. I understand the strong feelings of those who oppose this amendment. I understand their argument that the freedoms the American flag stands for, including the freedom of speech and expression, are as important as the flag itself. We must not separate the flag from the cherished principles that it represents. In keeping with that concept, I believe it is wrong for proponents of the flag desecration amendment to question the patriotism of those who oppose it.…”