Man Faces Backlash After Not Standing for Pledge of Allegiance

The story grabbed online attention, with people debating if hart was disrespecting the flag or just expressing his first amendment rights

The man accused of protesting the Pledge of Allegiance at a city council meeting in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, is speaking out.

Joe Hart said he wasn't trying to disgrace the flag and that the initial reason why he didn't stand was because he didn't want to stand with the city council.

The story grabbed online attention, with people debating if hart was disrespecting the flag or just expressing his first amendment rights.

Hart said there was one accusation that really upset him.

“I don't understand why they would think it's disrespectful to our troops,” Hart said. “They're fighting for my right to not stand up.”

Hart added that he plans to attend Wednesday's meeting, but wouldn't say if he would sit or stand for the pledge.

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