The Offensive Pledge

A Portland school has stopped its students from reciting the Pledge of Allegiance at a ceremony.

The pledge was instead replaced with a singing version of the preamble to the Constitution.

Why, you ask? Well, here's an explanation-

KATU tried repeatedly to talk with Principal Pam Wilson but got no results. However, in an e-mail response to Reese's questions, she explained the pledge was removed "out of respect for the diversity of religious faiths."

So a pledge of allegiance to the United States of America is offensive to some religions? One would have thought that "under God" would not be offensive to any monotheistic religion. Here's the full text of her email-

"The Pledge contains the words, 'under God' and we have many Muslim families here. So out of respect for the diversity of religious faiths practiced by our school community (parents and families) we decided that this year the students would memorize and sing the Preamble to the Constitution. At the rehearsal on Friday they did it from memory and to a wonderful song. It was very joyful and unique. I think you, and other parents, will really appreciate the creative and new way to open the program."

Makes you wonder if they had any complaints from the Muslim families or if this was another case of someone taking pre-emptive action because they think the Pledge is somehow offensive themselves?

UPDATE - I rest my case!

Portland school officials say the principal was trying to be sensitive, but some Muslims say the ban caused hurt feelings, and may foster bitterness and division within the community.