Student protest potential war by turning back to flag.

Toni Smith believes that mass death may be on the horizon, and, along with the rest of America, is preparing and bracing for the reality that another major war will occur. Citizens all over the country are split in their opinions, and in Purchase, NY, one college athlete is taking a silent stand against the war.
Smith is a member of the Manhattanville College women's basketball team, and she has quietly shown her protest by not facing the American flag while the national anthem plays during pre-game openings.
Smith has provided a public, written statement about her actions. "I am aware that this is a time of fear for many Americans, and the media has done a fine job of maintaining that fear and riling up people's emotions," she wrote. "However, amidst this fear people have lost sight of the fact that Bush's plan for 'maintaining our safety' will cause many innocent people, women and children, mothers and babies, to die overseas."
There have been mixed reactions to her protests, including the support of some of her teammates who have kept their hands by their side during the anthem. The president of the college, Richard A. Berman, stated in a press release that the college supported her fundamental right of expression.
In Atlanta, former Army Airborne Ranger, Vee Baker voiced a similar opinion, "Her action doesn't upset me, because as an American she is guaranteed the right and privilege of free speech and expression. These rights are two of the most important things that separate our democracy from other countries."
Just as Smith has those who support her decision, there are many who are upset by her actions at the games.The Chronicle of Higher Education reported how there are spectators who are booing her and heckling her with comments like "leave our country." During one game, a Vietnam veteran walked onto the court and held an American flag in front of her. (Feb. 25, 2003)
In Douglasville, Ed Meier, a former Army Specialist, had this to say about the incident: "I think it's very disrespectful, and it's bordering on abuse of the freedoms the (American) flag represents."
Despite the negative reactions, Smith says that she is still patriotic. "Being patriotic cannot simply be an empty slogan," she wrote. "[...] Therefore, any true patriot must acknowledge and respect my right to be different."