“Protecting our basic rights as American citizens is my motivation for public service and my commitment to this cause is unwavering. My colleagues and I have sworn an oath to uphold the Constitution. This outrageous restriction placed on Americans by the Architect of the Capitol is a clear violation of the First Amendment. Our nation was founded and settled by individuals seeking the freedom to openly practice their religion. Freedom of religion must never be confused with freedom from religion. Unfortunately, as highlighted by this recent turn of events right here in the United States Capitol Building, this confusion occurs all too often in our nation.” –Congressman Doug Lamborn (CO-05).

Last month, Andrew Larochelle, a constituent of Rep. Mike Turner (OH-03), requested that a flag be flown over the U.S. Capitol in honor of his grandfather. He asked that the accompanying certificate read that the flag had been flown over the Capitol, “In honor of my grandfather Marcel Larochelle, and his dedication and love of God, country, and family.” When the certificate was returned to the requesting office however, it did not contain the word God. According to the Architect of the Capitol, religious and political references cannot appear on the flag certificate because they could be found offensive. After protest from several Republican members, including Congressman Lamborn, the rule was abolished.

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