The New York State Senate, today, unanimously passed legislation (S3241) introduced by Senator Simcha Felder (D-Brooklyn) and sponsored in the Assembly (A3108) by Assemblyman William Colton (D-Brooklyn) that allows anyone to say the Pledge of Allegiance or sing the National Anthem at any location in New York City without requiring a permit.

�The Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem belong to the people. They are deep-rooted symbols of patriotism, honor and pride and their expression should be unrestricted and unimpeded,� stated Senator Felder.

In April 2016 a group of young students from North Carolina traveled to New York City with their choir teacher for a special trip that culminated in a visit to the 9/11 Memorial. Moved by the emotions the hallowed space at Ground Zero inspired, they spontaneously gathered to sing a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem. They were stopped midway by security personnel, invoking the need for a permit, and captured on video that later went viral.

Currently, the law qualifies public expr ssion of the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag or the National Anthem as a public gathering for which a permit is required. The Felder-Colton legislation amends city law to protect this expression from any requirements, fines, assessments or sanctions.

�I was shocked by the realization that just saying the Pledge of Allegiance or singing the National Anthem requires a permit. Some things are sacred and should be protected,� saidFelder. �It is my hope that this legislation will preserve the right of any individual or group, wherever or whenever, to express their patriotism and love of country freely.�

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)