How the Flag Came to Represent Human Rights

The American flag is an emblem that is well known all around the world. While the flag obviously represents our country, it also carries with it certain values associated with the nation. Let's take a look at how the flag came to represent human rights in particular.

The American flag is symbolic for certain values which is evident throughout the American way of life. For example, the lyrics from our national anthem, "land of the free and the home of the brave" offer a glimpse into the values we hold dear as a nation. The national anthem is one example of many that our country reveres as honoring our national values. Other examples can be seen in elements of American history and culture such as the Pledge of Allegiance, the Flag Code, the Declaration of Independence, and the U.S. Constitutional Amendments. All of these different examples from songs and pledges to legal documents, showcase the same set of values of liberty and freedom for all in a free nation. While these different elements are all sharing in the same message, the flag is the emblem for all of it because it stands as the universal and most singularly important emblem of America. When looking at how the flag came to represent human rights, you only need to look as far as the national anthem or Declaration of Independence to see the connection and significance. Our nation was built on principles of liberty and freedom for all and it's ingrained in every significant document, patriotic song, and most importantly, our flag.

Another important thing to keep in mind about how the flag came to represent human rights is the meaning behind the colors as well. The color red stands for the bravery of the soldiers serving their nation both today and throughout the entire history of our country. The white stands for liberty and equality for all. The blue stands for loyalty and faith. These colors represent human rights for Americans such as the promises of freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and freedom to live in a free land without dictatorship. While these acts of freedom are outlined in documents for legal reasons such as the Constitution, the flag still stands as a symbol of these rights. The American flag is both a symbol and a promise of freedom and human rights which we should all strive to honor.