Letters to the editor: Uninformed about flag; guns and politics

Contempt for flag protocol

Tuesday is Flag Day.

Most “sunshine patriots” are woefully uninformed about our flag, the protocols for display and most of all, the Pledge of Allegiance.

The authentic, original pledge was authored by Francis Bellamy, a Socialist Methodist minister. From adoption until 1954 it was a unifying declaration of belief in fundamental American values. In the “Why We Fight films,” produced at the beginning of World War II, there is a scene where the authentic, unifying pledge is recited in Hawaii by mostly Japanese American students.

Conspicuously absent in the recitation is the divisive phrase “under god.” While the authentic pledge without the phrase was in use America was basically unified and successful. The phrase was added in 1954 by right-wing extremists who asserted only those who believed in their deity could be Americans. In their un-American world view, there was/is no room for any nonbelievers or adherents to alternate theologies. And since then, America has become increasingly divided.

Then there is the display of “patriotism” by sunshine patriots. The conspicuous display of flags, the wearing of clothing emblazoned with the flag, all in direct violation of the U.S. Flag Code. The level of contempt for flag protocol by some who surround themselves in flags is astounding.

Samuel Johnson was spot-on correct. Conspicuous displays of “patriotism” are the “last refuge of a scoundrel.” Given the events of Jan. 6, it is clear he knew what he was talking about.

The flag is best honored when it is used to unite all Americans, in respectful nonpartisan display in concord with the Flag Code rather than in the pirated manner adopted by some.

Ira Cohen, Thousand Oaks

Real culprits of politicizing guns

Nineteen young students and two teachers were locked in a classroom with a deranged gun lover shooting each of them one at a time. Each young student had to watch classmates shot with grotesque, graphic results knowing their time was coming. This was far from the first time in recent American history.

Put yourself and your families in their place.

Some of our political representatives, primarily Republican Congressmen, accused those outraged by these events of politicizing that type of response.

Now tell us who is really guilty of politicizing by putting military-style weapons and money above our children, families and friends instead of human lives.

In 2021, gun rights groups spent $15.8 million on Congressional lobbying last year, compared to $2.9 million in lobbying from gun control groups. Hundred percent of NRA’s donations have gone to Republicans; Democrats no longer accept them.

In 2020 the NRA alone spent over $12 million campaigning against Biden and another $4.5 million in favor of Trump (courtesy of Fortune Magazine and other credible nonpartisan sources). Anybody care?

Jim Matlock, Ventura

This article originally appeared on Ventura County Star: Letters: Uninformed about flag; guns and politics