The school warns children not to chant “USA,” but when they do, officials regret it.
After students at a California high school were instructed not to yell “USA” at rallies and sporting events, controversy broke out.
During sports and rallies, the students of Vista Del Lago High School in Folsom, California, would frequently chant “USA” to express their pride. 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 suggest that Americans are all the same, you know. Everybody here is American. It makes no difference where you are from or what color skin you have.
The subject was brought up to the kids by the high school staff during a leadership lesson.
The director of Folsom Cordova Unified Communications, Daniel Thigpen, stated: “To practice kindness, empathy, and patriotism.” You are able to 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.
Mother Natalie Woodbury stated, “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.”
District representatives made it clear that chanting “USA” is not prohibited.
On Facebook, readers discussed the story and their opinions.
One reader said, “It is principals like this one that are slowly destroying our public schools, and that is SAD!” “We are appreciative of the students’ attendance at school athletic events and their expression of love for the United States of America.” Disgrace to the school’s leadership.
“Offensive and intolerable?” A another user wrote. “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! May God bless everyone!