My name is Kristina and I am 17 years old. I currently attend a high school that is located within Washington public schools. I stand as a voice for not only myself but others who haven’t had the opportunity or space to approach this hard topic. Throughout our journey through public school it has always been an expectation and standard to stand for the flag. While some students really value the pledge it has put some heavy pressure on those who question and disagree with this standard. As I’ve gotten older, I and others have started to evaluate the deeper meaning of the pledge of allegiance and what it actually means to us. We know that each individual has a different perspective and value of what our pledge means. Some students have already chosen to sit for the pledge however there are still some students who feel obligated and unsafe due to peers and teachers in fear of retaliation and repercussions. My goal today is not to get rid of the pleade of allegiance but to offer a safer and more comfortable solution. I think a good starting point instead of saying “please stand for the pledge” to change the wording. For example “for those who feel comfortable feel free to stand”. This way students don’t feel  pressured to stand for something they don’t support/believe this would offer them a  opportunity to opt out safely and respectfully.