USCIS 128:66. What do we show loyalty to when we say the Pledge of Allegiance?

OpenAI. (2026). What do we show loyalty to when we say the Pledge of Allegiance?  [AI-generated infographic]. OpenAI.  Edited by Jennifer Gagliardi

The Pledge of Allegiance is a promise of loyalty to the United States. People often say it in schools and at public events.  People turn towards the flag, men take off their hats, and place their right hand over their heart to say the pledge together.

Pledge of Allegiance:
“I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America,
and to the Republic for which it stands,
one nation under God, indivisible,
with liberty and justice for all.”

When we say “I pledge allegiance,” we are promising to be loyal. The “flag of the United States” is a symbol of the country. The “Republic” means the system of government where people choose their leaders.

The words “one nation…indivisible” mean the country should stay united. The phrase “liberty and justice for all” means freedom and fairness should be for everyone. 

When we say the Pledge or salute the flag, we are also promising to respect the values of the United States, such as freedom, justice, and unity. It is a way to show respect for the country and the people who live in it.