You may have recently witnessed the latest UFC fighting championship match wherein USA and Brazil were matched, to which the American fighter emerged victorious due to an unfortunate injury for the side of the Brazilian. The injury was a mind numbing sight for onlookers,while other s have pondered on the issue regarding a more nationalistic concern: the wearing of the American flag by the defending champion.
We all know that the American flag, just like any other flag should be given honor and respect. Basic etiquette such as proper handling, olding, storage, and flying the American colors are instilled to us in different means. There is even the American constitution’s flag code which enumerates the rules and provisions required by the state to be followed by the citizens.
In one of the sections written about the flag, it is stated that theAmerican flag should not be worn disrespectfully like a costume or the like. However, this is technically violated by some people, especially the athletes themselves when representing their beloved nation. EvenOlympic athletes drape the flag over their shoulders pre and post match.
While many would say that it is downright illegal and unlawful, most have not touched this issue even with a 20 foot pole on the grounds that the intent to which the flag was worn was due to patriotism inform of other nations. Athletes competing on a global scale are representing their beloved America, and wearing the flag over their shoulders during events signifies their allegiance and submission to the American sovereignty.
So the big dilemma remains for those who would weigh the justification of intent to the technical and literal word written in the very constitution that was made to protect the laws written within,including the wearing of the American flag.