When students at a California high school were instructed not to yell “USA” at rallies and sporting events, controversy broke out.
During games and rallies, students at Vista Del Lago High School in Folsom, California, would frequently yell “USA” to demonstrate their patriotism. The pupils are not allowed to chant because, according to school administrators, it could be interpreted as intolerable.
Senior Ryan Bernal told KOVR, “I wasn’t angry, but I was definitely like, ‘Why can’t we chant USA?'” “To state that, as Americans, we are all the same. All of us are Americans. It makes no difference where you are from or what color skin you have.”
Students were introduced to the topic during a leadership class by high school staff.
The director of Folsom Cordova Unified Communications, Daniel Thigpen, stated: “To exhibit kindness, understanding, and patriotism. You can do both.”
KOVR reported that the “USA” slogan has been used disparagingly against individuals of different ethnic backgrounds in a few schools around the nation.
According to California Interscholastic Federation’s Mike Garrison, “there’s a time and a place to yell that and cheer that.”
In an email to families in the district, the principal of Vista Del Lago High School issued a warning against the chant, which was also broadcast to students over the school’s public address system. The administrator explained that the chant “We can communicate an unintended message” could be used occasionally.
The principle further stated that while the USA chant is allowed, it should only be done at the proper moments, like after the national anthem or after the Pledge of Allegiance.
“I want to chant USA because I want us to pull together and help, not because I want anybody to feel left out or not a part of our country,” Natalie Woodbury, Natalie’s mother, said.
District representatives made it clear that chanting “USA” is not prohibited.
On Facebook, readers discussed the story and their opinions.
“It is principals like this one that is little by little destroying our public schools and that is SAD!” remarked a reader. “We should be grateful that the children showed their support for the United States of America by showing up to sporting activities held at their school. Disgrace to that school’s leadership.”
Another user remarked, “Intolerable and offensive?” “Are you serious? USA, USA, chant as loudly as you can, youngsters! God be praised for you children! Defend your God-given right to the First Amendment! We’re all so proud of you! “God bless everyone!”
