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Several bills aimed at reinforcing national pride and giving students the right to pray in public schools have been introduced this session. Given the events of September 11th and the current possible war with Iraq, some legislators believe it is important that students be allowed to briefly observe their individual faiths as well as express their allegiance to their country during the school day. However, none of the bills requires that a student must pray, only that they be given the opportunity to do so if they choose.
House Bill 422 would require students to recite the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States Flag at the beginning of each school day. Students wishing to not participate in the activity could be exempt with a written request from a parent or guardian.
Proponents of this legislation argue that reciting the Pledge of Allegiance is an important part of teaching students about national pride and is instrumental in developing students into patriotic citizens. Some opponents argue that our constitutional right of free speech includes not having to stand or make any other gesture of respect or acceptance.
House Bill 167 would require schools to provide for one minute of silence during the school day. Students are to use this time as they choose to pray, meditate or engage in any other silent activity that does not distract the other students. This requirement would begin with the 2003-2004 school year.
Proponents of this bill believe that it is important that children be given the opportunity each day to reflect upon their individual faith or have the opportunity to meditate without interference. Opponents believe that children have ample opportunities to pray outside of the school day and that students will not use this time as it is intended. Opponents also believe that enforcing a strict silence in a classroom would prove difficult for teachers, especially those who teach younger childern.
A couple of other bills are combinations of the two proposals. House Bill 640 would require the minute of silence at the beginning of the day, followed by the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. House Bill 793 would go a step further and require the minute of silence followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States Flag as well as to the Texas Flag.
I encourage you to contact me with your questions or comments regarding these bills. You can reach me by writing to P.O. Box 2910, Austin, TX 78768-2910 or by e-mailing me at larry.phillips@house.state.tx.us.
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