Minersville School District v. Gobitis - Jehovah's Witnesses And Public Schools

Jehovah's Witnesses are a Christian sect that gives sole allegiance to the kingdom of Jesus Christ. As a result, they refuse to salute any flag, vote, perform military service, or otherwise signify allegiance to any government. At times, these beliefs have brought members into conflict with the U.S. government. For instance, children who belong to the Jehovah's Witnesses have been expelled from public schools because they have refused to salute the U.S. flag in violation of their religion's teachings. The religion prohibits the worship of "graven images" and considers the American flag to be a graven image.