I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America. Showing adoration for our country by praising the American flag is custom for Americans to do. But, did you know that most flags are not even made in the United States? Yes, this all came about when a constituent complained he could not find a U.S. flag made domestically to legislation’s sponsor, Representative Patricia Haddad. The Flag Manufacturers Association of America says more than $5 million in U.S. flags were brought in last year; most coming from China. In July, the state of Minnesota took this matter very seriously by taking drastic measures requiring all US flags sold to be of American manufacture. Violations of the law, which comes into action towards the end of the year, will be punished by a $1,000 fine or 90 days in jail. Schools and colleges in Arizona are being forced as well to supply each classroom with a US-made flag. Minnesota is not the only state being affected by this. Tennessee state law (which is already in action) orders that any US flag bought cannot be imported from another country. Similar Bills are being considered by legislators in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. The series of new laws is maintained by the Flag Manufacturers’ Association of America. It has been complaining about the flood of US flags, imported mostly from China last year valuing at $5.3 million. It could also be seen another way. Ever since September 11th, the nation has been even more so patriotic. The idea of having American soldiers fighting for our country and enabling us all to buy products from a free country is being taken for granted.

The American Flag has a very famous story behind it. In 1776, it is said that Betsy Ross sat down with George Washington Robert Morris and George Ross. The four talked of Betsy sewing the first American flag. Shortly thereafter the Star Spangled Banner was born. This is what could be bothering many people. The idea that America's flag is being sewn overseas in a foreign country, and then imported to the United States. China, (the last Communist giant) and once a confirmed enemy of America is leading the world in exporting American flags.