UC Irvine Student Council Bans American Flag, Other National Flags
IRVINE, Calif., March 7 (UPI) — The student council at the University of California’s Irvine campus voted to ban the United States flag, and other national flags, in the council office lobby, sparking quick criticism from students and lawmakers.
In a 6-4 vote with two abstentions, the Associated Students of University of California, Irvine, listed 25 reasons for the ban, many related to the interpretation and symbolism of national flags. The decision drew objections from students and the president of the group’s executive cabinet.
“I stand firmly against this piece of legislation, though I understand the authors intent and supporters intent, I disagree with the solution the council has come to. I speak for myself about my feelings on this piece of legislation,” President Reza Zomorrodian said in a statement on the groups website.
Under the resolution, no flag of any nation can be hung in the Associated Students lobby. The resolution states flags “construct paradigms of conformity and sets homogenized standards for others to obtain which in this country typically are idolized as freedom, equality, and democracy” and
“not only serve as symbols of patriotism or weapons for nationalism, but also construct cultural mythologies and narratives that in turn charge nationalistic sentiments.”
Joshua Nguyen, a vice president for student services, said the resolution came as a result of a debate of freedom of speech vs. inclusivity prompted by the American flag hanging outside his office. Nguyen, an executive board member, said he will vote for a veto of the resolution.
“The only reason you can take down this flag is because of the liberties given to you by this flag,” he told the Orange County Register.
State Sen. Janet Nguyen said she and other lawmakers are considering introducing language to the state constitution prohibiting state-funded universities and colleges from banning the U.S. flag.
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