An Act to Establish the Civil Peace Flag as the National Flag of the United States and Modify Flag Protocols for Military Use
Preamble:
Recognizing the need for a symbol that represents peace, unity, and the civil aspects of American life, this proposal seeks to transition from the current flag, primarily associated with military heritage, to the Civil Peace Flag. This flag, with its vertical stripes of red, white, and blue, symbolizes a new era of peace and civil governance.
Section 1: Definition and Design of the Civil Peace Flag
Design:
The Civil Peace Flag consists of vertical stripes of equal width - red on the hoist side, white in the middle, and blue on the fly side. The flag dimensions shall maintain a ratio of 1:2, where width is to length.
Symbolism:
Red represents valor and bravery, white signifies purity and innocence, and blue stands for vigilance, perseverance, and justice.
Section 2:
Replacement of Current National Flag
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Implementation:
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Within one year of this act’s passage, the Civil Peace Flag shall officially replace the Stars and Stripes as the national flag for all civil uses within the United States, its territories, and embassies.
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All government buildings, schools, and public institutions will fly the Civil Peace Flag.
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Section 3: Dual Usage in Military Contexts
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Military Protocol:
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Military installations, naval ships, and military aircraft shall continue to fly the current Stars and Stripes alongside the Civil Peace Flag.
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The Civil Peace Flag will be raised below the Stars and Stripes on the same flagpole or on a separate but adjacent pole, symbolizing the integration of military strength with civil peace.
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Section 4: Education and Public Awareness
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Public Education Campaign:
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Launch a nationwide educational campaign to inform citizens about the new flag, its significance, and its transition from the traditional flag. This includes:
- Incorporation into school curriculums.
- Public service announcements.
- Community forums and discussions.
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Section 5: Flag Etiquette and Respect
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Respect and Handling:
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All regulations concerning the respect and handling of the current national flag shall apply to the Civil Peace Flag with necessary adjustments for its unique design.
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The Pledge of Allegiance will be adapted to reference “the flag of the United States of America” without specifying the design, allowing for continuity in national ceremonies.
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Section 6: Legal Adjustments
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Legislation Updates:
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Amend the U.S. Code, specifically Title 4, Chapter 1 (The Flag), to reflect these changes.
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Ensure all federal, state, and local laws regarding flag display are updated to include the Civil Peace Flag.
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Section 7: Transition Period
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Transition:
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A three-year grace period will be allowed for the phasing out of current flag stocks by businesses, educational institutions, and private citizens.
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Governmental bodies will have a one-year transition period to comply fully.
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Section 8: Enforcement
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Compliance:
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The Department of the Interior, in conjunction with local governments, will oversee compliance with this act.
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Penalties for misuse or disrespect of the Civil Peace Flag will mirror those currently in place for the Stars and Stripes.
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Section 9: Effective Date
-Effective Date:
This act shall take effect one year following its passage into law, allowing time for preparation and manufacture of the new flag.
Conclusion:
This policy aims to foster a national identity centered around peace and civil engagement while maintaining respect for the military heritage symbolized by the Stars and Stripes. The dual flag presence in military settings will serve as a constant reminder of the balance between might and peace, strength and justice.
