Staff Reports
As the Fourth of July approaches, all Americans are preparing to commemorate the nation's birth. However, it appears that symbols of national unity are gradually disappearing. It is time to make some minor adjustments to help restore unity.
Modest Proposals for Restoring National Unity https://t.co/JltFB6BtX3
— RedState (@RedState) June 29, 2023
First and foremost, we should exempt the procurement of the American and state flags from state and local sales taxes. Currently, only fourteen states have such exceptions. It's a true downer to have to pay taxes on something as patriotic as a flag. We must make it simpler for people to demonstrate their patriotism without ruining the bank. In addition, this exemption would send a clear message that the procurement of flags is intended to promote unity, not identity politics that promote division.
Also, let's not overlook the state flags! The Pledge of Allegiance serves as a reminder of the significance of state and national sovereignty. It is time to renew our commitment to both levels of government. The Tenth Amendment expressly reserves to the states and the people any powers not delegated to the federal government. Give state flags the same tax exemption as the American flag. It is time to demonstrate to the federal government that we have not neglected the value of our states.
I am aware that there are skeptics who will contend against these proposals. According to the Tax Foundation, exemptions like these reduce the effectiveness of state and local sales taxes. Occasionally, however, the public interest should take precedence over efficiency. We must prioritize unity and demonstrate our support for these national and state symbols of pride.
Another modest proposal is to require public school students to recite the Pledge of Allegiance at the outset of each school day. Currently, this is a requirement in the majority of states, but the exemptions can be ambiguous and lead to unnecessary litigation. When students or educators object on religious grounds, we need explicit guidelines. Additionally, we must clarify that non-citizens are not required to recite the pledge. Future generations must be instilled with a sense of patriotism and unity by our institutions.
Critics may argue that these proposals are merely symbolic gestures and will not resolve our more fundamental divisions. However, occasionally even symbols can make a distinction. When I served on the Colorado Tax Commission, we conducted a survey that revealed a lack of confidence in our financial institutions. This lack of confidence has only grown over time. We need to do something to restore this trust and reunite our society.
National cohesion is the cement that binds our country together. We must do everything possible to strengthen this connection. These modest proposals may not address all of our problems, but they are a positive step forward. Regain our unity and demonstrate to the world what it means to be an American.
