Texas V. Johnson Quotes

We do not consecrate the flag by punishing its desecration, for in doing so we dilute the freedom that this cherished emblem represents.

Are there any limitations? Are they going to allow fornication in Times Square at high noon?

It is an unmistakable statement of contempt for a government to burn its flag.

The government may not prohibit expression simply because it disagrees with its message.

The Supreme Court decision [Texas v. Johnson, 1989] does not in any way indicate the government is backing off from forcing the flag on people. They just don't want to look too dictatorial in the way they do it.

We can imagine no more appropriate response to burning a flag than to waving one's own, no better way to counter a flag-burner's message than by saluting the flag that burns, no surer means of preserving the dignity even of the flag that burned than by, as one witness here did, according its remains a respectful burial.

... of oppression, international murder and plunder ... [of a] sick and dying empire.

Offensive or not, those who burn the flag to express their views are exercising a right that our founding generation fought a revolution to secure.

The way to preserve the flag's special role is not to punish those who feel differently about these matters. It is to persuade them that they are wrong.... Our decision is a reaffirmation of the principles of freedom and inclusiveness that the flag best reflects, and of the conviction that our toleration of such criticism [flag-burning] is a sign and source of our strength.

Folks, wear flags on your lapels. Put them on your hats. Get the expensive sticker put on the side of the camper, on the side of your Cadillac Eldorado.