Some people were very angry about Vista Del Lago High School in California in 2017. Due to worries that it could be seen as intolerant, the school’s management told students not to chant “USA” during sporting events and rallies. Students, parents, and people in the community were confused and angry about this advice.
For kids like senior Ryan Bernal, the chant was a safe way to show their national pride. His question was, “Why is it wrong to love our country?” Officials at the school, including Principal Michael Garrison, said that the chant wasn’t bad in and of itself, but that it had been used in other schools to make fun of ethnic groups, which raised worries.
It was hard to say what the school thought. It was okay to chant “USA” after the national anthem, but officials told students to think about the situation and how it might affect other people. Officials in the district made it clear that there was no outright ban and stressed the importance of free speech.
There was a heated discussion about the controversy. Some said that limiting the chant took away students’ right to show their patriotism, while others said it was important to make sure that everyone felt welcome. Parents and people in the community spoke out about how to strike a mix between national pride and sensitivity.
As the argument went on, it became clear that understanding and sensitivity would be needed to find a way to make things better. Vista Del Lago High School wanted to create a space where students could be proud of their history without offending others by encouraging thoughtful expression.
The event served as a reminder that actions that seem harmless can have effects that were not meant. The school community tried to promote a culture of acceptance, respect, and patriotism by figuring out how to handle this difficult problem. These are values that are necessary for building a peaceful and united society.
