READERS RESPOND

Why do people feel so threatened by an individual or group of individuals who choose to exercise their constitutional rights in this country? Freedom of speech allows us, as citizens of this country, the right to say and not say what we feel or believe.

By not reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, the group at OCC is exercising its right. It has nothing to do with being unpatriotic. It’s quite the converse, this group may just be proudly defending its rights and allegiance to the law, defined by the Constitution.

PAMELA LAWRENCE

Corona del Mar

I find it reprehensible that American students at an American college receiving funds from the American government would somehow find the Pledge of Allegiance “offensive.” And if they did, why would other Americans kowtow to their misplaced sensitivities?

What nation do they imagine is providing them with the very freedom and opportunity to further their educations?

I am a high school teacher, and I will encourage my students to go anywhere except OCC based on this outrage.

EARLE DAVIS

Los Angeles

I thought the student leaders in this county were really expected to be more tolerant and also to be aware that the pledge is an American tradition of expressing love and loyalty to our country.

They can stay mum if they wish but also respect the historical culture of that our country was founded on.

JAMES ORSTEAD

Newport Beach

I think we should send the those three kids who voted to discontinue saying the Pledge of Allegiance to China to live.

ED FITCH

Newport Beach

I think it’s an awesome idea to put it back in the agenda. I think as Americans we have a duty to our forefathers and soldiers that fought for us to stand united and appreciate our country, and it also unites the country today. So, great decision.

BRANDON WALDRON

Costa Mesa

I think they should reinstate the Pledge of Allegiance, and I’m glad they voted to do that.

BEVERLY WINANS

Newport Beach

I applaud the OCC student government for putting the pledge back in. It should never have been taken out.

GAYLE HASKELL

Newport Beach