March 6, 2002 (web only)
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Civic Federation says 'Yes' (sort of) to Pledge of Allegiance
The Arlington County Civic Federation on Tuesday endorsed a watered-down resolution that allows meetings to begin with the Pledge of Allegiance or other patriotic events.
A month ago, Civic Federation delegates sent the proposal back to the executive committee, with some delegates voicing concerns that saying the Pledge of Allegiance might be offensive to some in the community.
The revised version, which was adopted by a 41-22 vote, says the organization's president "may" (but is not required to) open meetings with the Pledge of Allegiance, a patriotic song or the National Anthem. The updated resolution also took out a statement urging the County Board and other elected bodies to begin their meetings with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Several delegates attempted to substitute a moment of silence for the Pledge of Allegiance.
"We are a diverse nation, and I would like to see this respected," said Hal Handerson (Arlington Historical Society). But the amendment was quickly swatted aside at the Federation's March 5 meeting.
Barbara DePauw (East Falls Church) was among those incredulous that the issue of the Pledge of Allegiance had gotten so out of hand. "
Diversity? Yes," she said. "We have over 100 different nationalities in Arlington."
DePauw said there was a simple solution for those who did not like the Pledge of Allegiance.
"You don't have to pledge if you don't want to," she said.
Civic Federation president Jim Pebley, who last month voiced concern about the group's image taking a beating over this dispute, said Tuesday he would donate a flag to the Civic Federation and would lead the Pledge at meetings.
Future presidents, however, would have the option of halting that practice.
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