They claim an order issued last year forcing them to stand and sing Kimigayo at school ceremonies is unconstitutional.

The 228 teachers, who work at public high schools and nursing schools for disabled children in Tokyo, filed the lawsuit at the Tokyo District Court.

They are demanding confirmation that they are not obliged to sing the anthem or stand and face the Hinomaru national flag.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Board of Education issued a notice in October ordering teachers at metropolitan schools to rise and sing Kimigayo while facing the Hinomaru, and to urge their students to do so.

While similar notices had been issued in the past, this one stated that any teachers who violated the order would be punished.

The notice requires schools to fly the flag on the stage throughout these ceremonies and to arrange seating for students in such a way that they face the flag.

The Japan Times Weekly: Feb. 7, 2004
(C) All rights reserved