Aiken Times

Washington, D.C. – Representatives Joe Wilson (SC-02), William Timmons (SC-04), Russell Fry (SC-07), Nancy Mace (SC-01), Ralph Norman (SC-05), and Jeff Duncan (SC-03) introduced legislation to prohibit any regulations on the singing of the National Anthem in the U.S. Capitol, when the action does not interfere with the operation of the government.                       

“The Star-Spangled Banner symbolizes the hopes and dreams of our nation, earned through a history of blood, sweat, and tears so that Americans may be free. Democracy is not easy, but expressing love of our country by singing our national anthem should be easy, particularly in the nation’s Capitol building. I am grateful to join my fellow South Carolina Congressional colleagues in introducing this legislation to allow this beautiful song to be sung, unhindered,” said Rep. Wilson.

“Our National Anthem embodies the tradition, history, and beliefs of our great country. It should be celebrated, not shutdown. Unfortunately, the Rushingbrook Children’s Choir’s beautiful rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner at the U.S. Capitol was recently cut short. I am proud to join my South Carolina colleagues to introduce legislation to protect our National Anthem in the People’s House,” said Rep. Timmons.

“It is absurd that legislation needs to be introduced in this country to protect the singing of our National Anthem in the United States Capitol. But unfortunately, that’s where we are. On June 13 I join my Republican colleagues in the South Carolina delegation as co-lead of the Let Freedom Sing Act to make sure what happened with the Rushingbrook Children's Choir never happens again,” said Rep. Fry.

“In typical Washington fashion, it literally takes an act of Congress to allow children to sing the National Anthem in the People’s House. At least these kids will have no allusion that DC is a functioning place,” said Rep. Mace.

“The Star-Spangled Banner is our national anthem for a reason—it is a song about courage, liberty, and freedom. It reminds us of how incredible this country is, and how blessed we are to have so many who have fought for our freedoms. I am happy to support legislation that would allow the singing of our National Anthem in the U.S. Capitol, which is another symbol of the democracy that our country stands for,” said Rep. Norman.

“It’s a sad day for our country when a children’s choir is interrupted in the United States Capitol for singing our National Anthem. It is important that we preserve national unity and freedom of speech, and I am proud to cosponsor the Let Freedom Sing Act to ensure the National Anthem is allowed to be freely sung in the U.S. Capitol. I hope to see the Rushingbrook Children’s Choir of Greenville visit Washington, D.C. again soon to finish their patriotic performance,” said Rep. Duncan.

Click here for the full text of the bill.

Original source can be found here