海角大神

On Thursday, the University of California at Irvine student body government voted to ban all flags from the common lobby area of student government offices. This includes the American flag.

In a 6 to 4 vote, with two abstentions, the resolution was passed by the UC Irvine student legislative council. The bill argues that flags harbor much cultural significance, and in some instances they can elicit negative associations. In an effort to promote cultural inclusion, 聽鈥撀燼nd the American flag specifically 鈥� has been "flown in instances of colonialism and imperialism" and they "serve as symbols of patriotism or weapons for nationalism.鈥�

The bill continued: 鈥淔reedom of speech, in a space that aims to be as inclusive as possible, can be interpreted as hate speech."

Is the move a revolutionary step towards inclusion or an unpatriotic act that could put the school鈥檚 government funding at stake?

While some agree that the resolution could have positive implications, many argue that it seems unnecessary. The bill will go before the executive branch of the campus鈥� Associated Students (ASUCI), the student government, where it is expected to be vetoed.

Associated Students President Reza Zomorrodian said he does not support the bill.

"Though I understand the authors' intent and supporters' intent," he "I disagree with the solution council has come to."

The university has also issued informing students that flags are still flying on campus; they are only banned from the common area of the student government offices. Furthermore, the Facebook page states the 鈥渓egislation is not endorsed or supported in any way by the campus leadership."

Joshua Nguyen, vice president for student services, said the problem with the bill becomes an issue of freedom of speech vs. inclusivity. Yes, the flag may have both positive and negative connotations, but only by the freedom it represents is this conversation possible.

鈥淭he only reason you can take down this flag is because of the liberties given to you by this flag,鈥� said Nguyen, .

From the over about the decision, it appears a large percentage of the student body does not support the decision.

鈥淎s a UCI Alumna and a military veteran I am embarrassed and disappointed in this council's actions. I hope you understand the implications your actions have on the campus and in the community,鈥� . The comment received over 850 likes.

,聽State Sen. Janet Nguyen said she and some other legislators also disagree with the act. At this time, they are considering the introduction of a state constitutional amendment to prohibit "state-funded universities and college campuses from banning the United States flag.''

The UC Irvine student government's executive cabinet is to discuss and likely vote to veto the resolution. The five-person group needs a majority vote. If vetoed, the resolution would appear once again before the legislative council, which would need a two-thirds majority to override the veto.