Off The Record
The School Tells The Kids Not To Chant “USA,” But What The Kids Do Instead Makes The Officials Regret It
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.
“I wasn’t angry, but I was definitely like, ‘Why can’t we chant USA?'” senior Ryan Bernal told KOVR. “To say USA, you know, we’re all the same. We’re all American. It doesn’t matter what your skin tone is or where you’re from.”
Students were introduced to the topic during a leadership class by high school staff.
Daniel Thigpen, the Folsom Cordova Unified Communications Director, said, “To practice empathy, to practice kindness and to practice 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.
“There’s a time and a place to yell that and cheer that,” said Mike Garrison of the California Interscholastic Federation.
The principal of Vista Del Lago High School sent an email to district families relaying the warning against the chant—a warning that was also given to students over the school’s P.A. system. The principal said that sometimes, by using the chant, “We can communicate an unintended message.”
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,” said mother Natalie Woodbury.
District representatives made it clear that singing “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!” one reader commented. “Be thankful the students were attending their schools sporting events and voiced their love for our country, the Grand Old USA. Shame on the leadership of that school.”
“Intolerable and offensive?” another user wrote. “Are you serious! You kids chant USA AS loud as you can! Thank the Lord for you kids! Hold your ground to your 1st amendment, God given right! We’re all so proud of you all! God bless you all!!”
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