there's a considerable reservoir of Murican viciousness about Anyone who 'isn't a part of My group'. Exactly as in the examples you mention, particularly the "moment of silence" patently obvious ploy.
Especially with kids! whose Greatest fear is to be left-out of (anything). (And even to 'protest' the status quo -?- there are Rulez for proper rebel attire!)
In a nation of sheep: Not-reciting is tantamount to getting spray-canned Black.
Rest case.
Ashton