Congress to deliberate bill about flag burning

After a recent incident in the Pit that resulted in an arrest, Student Congress members will deliberate on Tuesday a resolution condemning the desecration of the American flag on campus.

On Oct. 6, Kevin Sellers, a homeless protester, set to fire an American flag that belonged to Richard Bean, a member of College Republicans.

In response, Kris Wampler, vice chairman of Congress' Finance Committee, has introduced a resolution to Congress that condemns flag burning in hopes of preventing similar occurrences in the future.

He said he believes the incident was a display of political activism that transformed into criminal activity.

"Because we represent the students, and (the flag burning incident) was so symbolic, we have to make a statement about this," Wampler said.

Speaker Charlie Anderson said some representatives have expressed concern about the resolution in its initial format.

Wampler said their concerns include the fact that such a resolution, if passed, could stifle political activism on campus.

"My only concern is that people might think we are condemning flag burning in general," he said.

The resolution now reads, "While the Student Congress of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill affirms the right of every American to freedom of speech and encourages civil debate, the body condemns the criminal act of desecration of another's American flag."

Because the wording has been adjusted, the resolution more clearly speaks to the targeted incident while welcoming political debate within legal boundaries, Congress members said.

Anderson predicted that the resolution should fare well Tuesday night when it re-emerges during the next full session of Congress.

"I think it will be received pretty warmly. I don't think anyone disagrees that (the burning of the flag) was inappropriate," he said, noting that he cannot speak for everyone.

Luke Farley, chairman of Congress' Rules and Judiciary Committee, said he supports the resolution.

"I think it's a great idea," he said. "It puts the emphasis on the fact that the desecration of the flag was the only crime committed."

Farley predicted that the resolution will be well received by members of Congress.

He also speculated that if members oppose the resolution, their rationale will be political and not concerned with the issue at hand.

Wampler acknowledged that civil debate at UNC is welcome and important, especially during an election season.

But he said he also believes Congress has the responsibility to make sure students remain civil when espousing their views.

"We encourage all students to speak their minds, but there is a line between good political speech and hurting people, and we don't want people to take it too far."

Contact the University Editor at udesk@email.unc.edu.