To the Editor:

Mr. Tomlins’ letter is so full of wild and inaccurate statements, I must respond. It has been widely reported that I do not say the Pledge of Allegiance. I personally choose not to pledge my allegiance to the U.S. flag or any other symbol. I do, however, strongly support the U.S. Constitution and our laws.
And like all public officials, I take an oath of office, pledging to uphold the U.S. Constitution, federal law, state law and the ordinances of the city of Cranston. I freely take that oath and consider my support for the law when voting on issues. It was one reason I supported removal of the Cranston West prayer banner when I was a member of the Cranston School Committee. The law was clear that it had to be removed and $150,000 in legal fees later, a federal judge confirmed it.
Mr. Tomlins, however, fervently supported preservation of the prayer banner, paying for Robocalls to publicize his views. Perhaps he is guilty of showing disrespect for our Constitution.

Steven Stycos
Ward 1 Councilman
Cranston