Norristown Pledge of Allegiance Rally is Small But Powerful for Attendees

Rallies come in all sizes and flavors in Norristown, from this April’s immigration rally where throngs of people gathered to call for reform, to Sunday’s rally supporting the pledge of allegiance, a mini rally where a handful of people gathered at the base of the courthouse not to shout or chant with dozens of others but to share, and debate cheerfully.

The rally was organized by Daniel Wissert, a local DJ and trivia master who deeply believes in having the pledge of allegiance in public schools and is not happy knowing that some public schools have removed it. “I think it should be brought back to give the kids something to believe in,” he said.

Some of the rallyers brought signs, which they gamely held up for a photo op, but which found their way to resting against a low wall.  It was too much fun to compare ideological opinions with friends, old and new, who had made their way to the rally. Besides, there will be more rallies.        

As a man drove by on Norristown’s Main Street Sunday afternoon past the base of the courthouse, and honked cheerfully at the small group, rallyer Jackie Piotrowski smiled. “That’s the best part about a rally.  If someone honks at you, it’s like you’re doing it for a reason,” she said.

Piotrowski and her brother-in-law Steve Piotrowski, who organize rallies, some of which attract about 200 people, are the co-creators of the civic group Citizens for Liberty.  Both of them addressed their Sunday co-rallyers.

Jackie Piotrowski said that she believes in the pledge of allegiance, but not in the current government. “I pledge allegiance to the flag, I do, my heart bleeds red, white and blue,” she said.  “To me the flag represents the people, not the government. You can love your country without loving your government.”

Her co-rallyers, few as they were, all smiled.  There was more talking and debate afterward.

According to Jackie Piotrowski, at rallies where hundreds of people participate, she cannot talk to everyone.  A small rally has its charm. “You get to actually talk to people,” she said.