As-Salamu 'Alaykum: In school when the pledge was recited, I did not stand and did not place hand on chest. I did not even recite. None made a row over it. It is a choice as school is concerned. But to become a citizen, it is required. The problem we, muslims, have with the pledge is that it is American foreign policy that is against us. They do not say it is against Islam, but they are quick to equate any muslim with a gripe to Al-Qaida or call him a Taliban. This is what the ordinary person can see. With regard to saying the pledge in order to become a citizen, I equate it with joining a gang. "We're your family now." That says it all.