The Conference of German-Lutheran Pastors, which was held here last week, wisely refused to voice a resolution against the so-called flag-law. Of course, the Conference instructed the Pastors to fight the said law as un-American and not constitutional - but without making the opposition a political issue.

As we all know, the flag-law is forcing all public and private schools, to raise an American flag at the school-building from 9 AM to 5 P.M. With the same right, the legislature might expect, every citizen to hang permanently a flag out the window or wear continuously a flag-ribbon in the button-hole.

The "Patriotic Sons of America", which is an organization of loud-mouthed Hurrah-patriots and has the sponsoring protection of some Republican newspapers, are attacking viciously the opposition mentioned and even suspect the German elements of our population as un-American and not patriotic.

We believe, that a flag or any piece of cloth, is not alone the symbol of ones Patriotism, which has to be taught its meaning, to the children inside of the schoolhouse.

The flag itself is an external manifestation of one Patriotism at certain occasions at the right time. The constant swinging of flags and hurrah-yelling always has been used by evil-minded political agitators to mislead and divert public opinion from larger political problems.

The flag-patriots are the mouth-patriots. The real patriots in honesty and trust, live up to the laws of the constitution. Patriotism as an ideal is inspired by the many duties and obligations of one family - life and community-life.

Only this way, by doing right and respecting the laws from a broad-minded standpoint, have we been proud and patriotic citizens of this country.