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Bill

Bill

36-0067

An Act amending title 17 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 5 by adding a section 41j requiring the Pledge of Allegiance and the Virgin Islands Motto to be recited at the beginning of each school day in public schools, but additionally provides that students may opt out of the recitatation

2025-2026 Regular Session

Virgin Islands bill mandates daily Pledge of Allegiance and territorial motto recitation in public schools with student opt-out option allowed.

Introduced
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · 36-0067

Legislative bill overview

This bill amends Virgin Islands education code to require public school students to recite the Pledge of Allegiance and the Virgin Islands Motto at the start of each school day, with an opt-out provision allowing students to abstain from participation. The requirement applies to all public schools in the territory.

Why is this important

Daily pledge recitation in schools raises questions about civic education, student autonomy, and how territories balance patriotic traditions with individual rights. The opt-out clause attempts to address concerns about compelled speech, but the practical implementation—whether opting out is truly consequence-free and how it functions in practice—will determine its actual impact on students and families.

Potential points of contention

  • Compelled speech concerns: Even with opt-out provisions, critics argue requiring students to be present during recitation creates social pressure and potential discrimination against non-participants
  • Age-appropriateness and understanding: Young students may recite without comprehension, raising questions about whether the practice achieves its intended civic education goals
  • Implementation details: The bill lacks specifics on how opt-outs are documented, whether parents must formally request them, and whether opted-out students leave the room or remain present
  • Territorial identity versus national patriotism: Questions about balancing Virgin Islands motto recitation with U.S. Pledge of Allegiance, particularly regarding the territory's political status

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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