Understanding the Pledge of Allegiance
Where it came from, how it changed, and what every word means — with a look at how the Pledge became part of American classrooms.
The Pledge at Elks Events
At Phoenix Elks Lodge #335 — and at Elks Lodges across the nation — every meeting, ceremony, and public event begins with the Pledge of Allegiance.
This tradition is more than a ritual; it is a living expression of patriotism, unity, and respect. By starting with the Pledge, we honor the principles of liberty and justice for all, and we remind ourselves that service to community and country are inseparable.
Whether it is a youth awards night, veterans recognition, holiday celebration, or regular Lodge meeting, beginning with the Pledge reflects our enduring commitment as Elks: Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love, and Fidelity.
The Pledge (Current Wording)
“I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
Arizona Student Spotlight: Lori Ann Cox (Arizona)
As a teenager, Lori Cox found it “hypocritical” that her school only said the Pledge for VIP visits. She campaigned to bring back daily, voluntary recitations and later championed patriotic education.
- Pushed for Arizona policy allowing voluntary daily Pledge in schools.
- Led efforts that helped establish National Patriotism Week (recognized federally in 1980; celebrated with students in Washington, D.C. in 1981).
What the Pledge Means
The Pledge Line by Line
Teacher-friendly language adapted from common civics lesson scripts to help students connect vocabulary to concrete ideas.
Pledge of Allegiance Etiquette
When reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, the United States Flag Code provides guidance to show respect and honor. At Phoenix Elks Lodge #335, we follow these traditions at every meeting and event:
- Civilians: Stand facing the flag with your right hand over your heart.
- Men wearing hats: Remove non-religious headwear during the pledge.
- Veterans and Military Personnel: May render the military salute, even when not in uniform.
- First Responders in uniform: May also render a salute to honor service.
The Law
In 2008, Congress amended Title 4, U.S. Code, Section 4 to authorize veterans and active duty members of the Armed Forces to render the military salute during the national anthem and the Pledge of Allegiance, whether or not they are in uniform. This means veterans are not required to remove hats when saluting the flag.
Reference: 4 U.S.C. § 4 – Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag; Manner of delivery
How the Pledge Evolved
1892 — Written by Francis Bellamy
Created for a nationwide public-school celebration (Columbus Day). Original text: “I pledge allegiance to my Flag and the Republic for which it stands, one nation, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”
1923–1924 — Specify “the Flag of the United States of America”
National Flag Conferences updated “my Flag” to “the Flag of the United States,” then added “of America” to ensure clarity for immigrant students pledging loyalty to the U.S.
1954 — “Under God” added (Cold War era)
After public advocacy (including the Knights of Columbus) and a widely noted sermon heard by President Eisenhower, Congress added “under God.” Eisenhower said it would strengthen the nation’s “spiritual weapons.”
“In this way we are reaffirming the transcendence of religious faith in America’s heritage and future.”
How the Pledge Became a School Ritual
The Pledge was designed for classrooms from the start. By the 1930s many states had daily flag-salute routines. After Barnette (1943), participation remained voluntary but the morning ritual continued widely.
