Vista Del Lago High School in Folsom, California, stirred controversy by advising students against chanting “USA” at sports events. Officials were concerned that the chant might be misinterpreted as exclusionary, as similar expressions have been used negatively elsewhere.
Senior Ryan Bernal questioned this decision, stating, “Why can’t we chant USA? We’re all American. It doesn’t matter what your skin tone is or where you’re from.”
The school’s principal clarified in an email that the chant is appropriate at specific times, such as after the Pledge of Allegiance or the national anthem. However, officials emphasized that there’s no outright ban but encouraged empathy and kindness alongside patriotism.
The move sparked a backlash online, with one commenter remarking, “Shame on the leadership of that school… be thankful the students voiced their love for our country.”
